How iodine can support a healthy thyroid and metabolism

We know by know the importance of a nutrient-rich diet, when it comes to maintaining a healthy metabolism and weight. But have you ever heard of iodine? If you’re struggling with shifting a few extra pounds and feeling sluggish and irritable, it may be that you don’t have enough iodine in your diet. So what exactly is it and how does it affect our metabolism?

What is iodine and do you have enough of it?

Iodine is a key mineral that plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and function of the thyroid gland, which is connected to our metabolism.

The thyroid is a gland in your neck, made up of two lobes that lay either side of your windpipe.  It produces two hormones that are released into the blood stream: thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones are essential for ensuring that the cells in your body can function properly, as well as your muscles and major organs like your heart. This entails a healthy digestive system and metabolism – which is how your body converts food into energy.

Iodine ingested in the right amount can help our thyroid produce enough thyroxine and triiodothyronine so that our body – and metabolism – performs at its peak. If we lack adequate levels of these hormones (a condition called hypothyroidism) our cells and organs slow down, and so does our metabolism. This can lead to sluggishness and weight gain – we can also feel tired and irritable and have difficulty concentrating. Having enough iodine in our system can also contribute to healthy skin and hair.

Good sources of iodine

So how do you know if you’re getting enough iodine in your diet? Fish and dairy are great sources of iodine, so if you usually eat a lot of these, your levels should be fine. However vegetarians and vegans, together with pregnant women, tend to be iodine deficient, and so should consider taking iodine in supplement form.

One such supplement is Rejuvenated’s Re-Set designed to help top up your energy levels. As well as iodine, it contains other metabolism-boosting ingredients such as the herb gynostemma pentaphyllum and chlorogenic acid (green coffee extract).  Click here to find out more.