Pros and Cons of Taking Iodine Supplements

Iodine supplements are prescribed to anyone who has an iodine deficiency. This is not a common problem here in the United States because of the addition of iodine to standard table salt. These supplements have both positive and negative effects and can be used to assist in boosting the metabolism.

• Taking large amounts of iodine or supplementing iodine when the body is not deficient can cause the thyroid to become overactive. An overactive thyroid can cause a variety of health problems such as heart problems and increased heart rate. Iodine supplements should only be taken under medical advice.

• Iodine supplements can be used to treat a thyroid goiter. A goiter is a swelling of the thyroid gland and is commonly caused by iodine deficiency. Iodine supplements can be effective and treating and reducing the swelling of the thyroid caused by this condition. Iodine levels should be checked regularly to ensure that the levels are within normal range.

• Iodine can increase the metabolic rate and help maintain a healthy body weight. The body does not produce iodine and therefore this essential mineral must be ingested. In the United States, iodine is added to table salt to help Americans receive the amount of iodine needed to maintain the thyroid gland. 

• Iodine can help reduce the chance of breast cancer in women who are deficient in iodine. When the body is deficient in iodine, it is unable to fight off the effects of estrogen which can lead to breast cancer. Iodine is also successful at helping the body heal from the effects of radiation.