The Gland that Affects ALL of YOU

June’s Integrated Spotlight

J. DIEKER

Our bodies. minds, and hearts are interconnected. One of the most influential parts of our bodies, that affects every part of you, is the thyroid. The thyroid is a small endocrine gland residing at the front of your neck. The function of this organ is to regulate and produce many important hormones. Some of the most important hormones the thyroid makes are Thyroxine (T4) and Triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones trigger nearly every cell and part of our body to function the way it ought to. Our hormones affect the very functioning of our body, as well as our emotions, energy levels, and mental functioning. For example they control your metabolism, fertility, breathing, digestion, brain development, as well as skin and bone health. In order to keep our entire selves healthy it is important that our thyroids also be healthy. One way to do this may be through iodine.

When it comes to hormones, iodine is an essential part, as the thyroid needs it to make T3 and T4. Since our bodies do not make it naturally, we must get it from other sources. It can be found naturally in sea foods or seaweed. It is commonly found in iodized table salt. Another way to get iodine is through supplementation.This is important to do especially in the Midwest, as we are not near any natural sources of iodine (aka the ocean). In recent years, studies have shown a general decline in Americans’ iodine levels and an increase in thyroid related disorders. This has caused many physicians to reexamine current treatments, specifically  iodine supplements. One study claims that it could be detrimental to patients. When this study was reviewed, it was found to lack a cohort control group, making it a questionable resource. Unfortunately, this has added to the general confusion surrounding iodine. Dr. David Brownstein has done much work on the subject. His research has shown consistent benefits from using iodine. However, one important thing to remember when using any supplement is that all things are good in moderation. Always follow the recommended amount unless a professional is directing you. 

Here is a highly informational interview with Dr Brownstein concerning iodine: 

Iodine: What You Need to Know About the Most Misunderstood Nutrient | Dr. David Brownstein (#598)

References:

Cleveland Medical Clinic. “Thyroid.” Cleveland Clinic, 25 Apr. 2025, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/23188-thyroid. Accessed 3 June 2025.

Fluoride Action Network. “Decrease of Iodine Intake Found in Americans - Fluoride Action Network.” Fluoride Action Network, 27 Sept. 2024, fluoridealert.org/content/iodine_intake. Accessed 3 June 2025.

IODINE: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews. www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-35/iodine. Accessed 3 June 2025.

Osansky, Eric. “An Interview With Dr. David Brownstein on Iodine and Thyroid Health | Natural Endocrine Solutions Dr. Eric Osansky, DC, IFMCP.” Natural Endocrine Solutions Dr. Eric Osansky, DC, IFMCP |, 5 Jan. 2012, www.naturalendocrinesolutions.com/2012/01/05/an-interview-with-dr-david-brownstein-on-iodine-and-thyroid-health. Accessed 3 June 2025.

Taylor, Peter N., et al. “Joint Statement From the Society for Endocrinology and the British Thyroid Association Regarding ‘Association of Radioactive Iodine Treatment With Cancer Mortality in Patients With Hyperthyroidism.’” Clinical Endocrinology, vol. 92, no. 3, Dec. 2019, pp. 266–67, doi:10.1111/cen.14136.

The Ultimate Health Podcast. “Iodine: What You Need to Know About the Most Misunderstood Nutrient | Dr. David Brownstein (#598).” The Ultimate Health Podcast, 30 Apr. 2024, ultimatehealthpodcast.com/dr-david-brownstein-iodine. Accessed 3 June 2025.

“Your Thyroid Gland.” British Thyroid Foundation, www.btf-thyroid.org/what-is-thyroid-disorder. Accessed 3 June 2025.