Iodine Supplementation

Written by Sarah Cain September 04, 2009

Those of us from the First World frequently find ourselves with fewer wholesome foods and more nutritional deficiencies than those of the less fortunate regions. Due in large part to chemical fertilizers, most of our non-organic foods are deficient in the nutrients needed for human health, and much of the produce from newly formed organic farms is too. This consequence of synthetic fertilizer usage was discovered about 70 years ago, and yet most citizens are unaware that our farming industry is depleting the soil; and thereby our health. Therefore, a vitamin B supplement would be beneficial for most people, especially if it is a food-based vitamin.

Most of us never consider the link between diet and the chronic fatigue or insomnia. A body produces negative warning reactions when it has too much or too little of any given thing. Most of us lack vital nutrients like the B vitamins, which are found in most vegetables. They are weakened by cooking, and they are destroyed whenever they are microwaved.

Iodine is an element that is found in trace amounts throughout the human body. Is the foundation of all nutrition, since cells need it to regulate their metabolism. When lacking iodine, people are known to suffer from swollen glands in the throat, thyroid diseases, increased fluoride toxicity, decreased fertility rates, increased infant mortality rates, sugar regulation problems, and (with severe deficiency) mental retardation. It has been theorized as a cause of A.D.H.D. for newborns of iodine deficient mothers. Iodine is the only substance known to neutralize fluoride stored inside the body, and it can shield against radiation damage.

A New York Times syndicate reported:

"Besides causing unsightly goiters, iodine deficiency slows all the systems of the body: The digestive system becomes sluggish, nails grow more slowly, skin and hair become dry and dull, tendon reflexes stiffen, sensitivity to cold increases, and the pulse slows. Iodine helps form who we are to such an extent that a deficiency can lead to a dulling of the personality, deterioration of attention and memory, increase in irritability due to fatigue and extreme apathy."

Iodine deficiencies, soy consumption, and fluoride exposure are all causes of the hypothyroidism epidemic. Hypothyroidism generally strikes women, causing fatigue, weight gain, and cancers amongst many other problems. Therefore, we recommend topical applications of iodine, because there is no known toxicity when it is absorbed through the skin into the blood. No person anywhere understands why, but it is a verifiable fact that low to moderate amounts of iodine are harmless when absorbed transdermally.

Organic iodine is found in some foods naturally, including eggs, sea salt, yogurt, cheese, asparagus, garlic, beans, spinach, beef and many more. As is usual with all the critical minerals, iodine is found in exponentially higher amounts in organic foods, and there is no comparison between organic iodine and the chemically synthesized versions of iodine found in retailer products and those from the quacks. It is another glaring example of the difference between God-made and man-made foods.

Most people are deficient in iodine, and there is a simple test that can used by anyone to determine if he is deficient. Here is simple the procedure:

1. Apply standard 2% topical iodine in circular area that is about the size of a silver dollar (British 50p) on the abdomen, and allow it to completely dry before redressing
2. Check to see if it almost completely disappears in 12 hours

If the iodine disappears within 12 hours, then the test subject is iodine deficient. This test works due to the fact that a body absorbs iodine at the rate at which it is needed. We do not pretend to understand the whole process, but the results accurately and reliably reflect iodine consumption. For instance, whenever a person is ill, transdermal iodine will absorb especially rapidly because iodine helps produce the hormones that fuel the immune system. In our own testing, we have witnessed a 4 to 5 times absorption increase during periods of high stress or illness. Apply it cautiously, because it will stain almost anything.

Hashimoto's Thyroiditis

There is a lot of conflicting information on the Internet regarding the application of iodine for those with Hashimoto's, with much of it being entirely wrong. Iodine dosage is especially important in Hashimoto thyroiditis cases, since an overdose can destroy the patient's thyroid. However, a small amount of iodine does actually help this condition. Problems tend to occur for those who consume potassium iodide supplements, and those who internally consume iodine drops. There is no known risk with iodine applied transdermally, as we generally recommend. Remember that transdermal application allows a body to better self-regulate iodine absorption.

If you feel that you must consume iodine orally, then get it through supplementing with red marine algae. It is the safest natural source for oral iodine supplementation, and other underwater vegetation generally contains toxins such as heavy metals and PCB's. You can also get iodine safely by eating fish. Potassium iodide is a much safer alternative to iodine for those who are careful not to overdose, but people should beware of companies that include additives such as sodium benzoate. Potassium iodide should never be used in those with Hashimoto's disease.

The Insanity of Ingesting Iodine

Lugol's Iodine is a special formulation of iodine that is sold by quacks who proclaim it to be a supplement for internal consumption. In an unscrupulous manner, they indirectly suggest that it is a medicine for an endlessly growing plethora of diseases, but they are careful to never actually call it a medicine lest they risk imprisonment. They present Lugol's Iodine as the gold standard of iodines for drinking. The formulation is 5 g. of chemically extracted iodine, and 10 g. of potassium iodide per 100 milliliters of distilled water. There are rogue people in the alternative health movement who advocate drinking as much as three teaspoons of chemically-extracted iodine daily; to supposedly cure and prevent countless illnesses. In some cases, they are even orally giving chemical industry derived iodine to small children in what is blatantly child abuse.

Dr. Guy E. Abraham and his close partner Dr. David Brownstein have been repeatedly quoted and cited by the quacks of iodine drinking as "the experts" on this topic; so it is worth a moment to discuss them. Brownstein wrote an entire book about drinking iodine, and Abraham's faithful point to his credentials as a professor and a former M.D. However, their therapies are not even endorsed by their own establishment. In previous times, they were both a willing part of a medical system that routinely gives children radioactive iodine to virtually destroy any chance of them having a long and healthy life.

"Want to join the experiment? If you are already taking iodine click here to become a member, or Order a bottle for $40 to try it out for yourself!"

-- Dr. Guy E. Abraham

Elemental iodine is quite useful as a topical antiseptic, and topical applications eliminate a plethora of health issues wrought by iodine deficiencies. However, it is important for everyone to know that elemental iodine is toxic when orally consumed, except in the case of foods, such as fish. The problems that ingested elemental iodine cause with the central nervous system mimic other well known poisons; for instance, the metallic taste that is produced by arsenic poisoning.

The poisonous short term effects of ingested iodine are well known, but the consequences of tiny amounts being ingested over a period of years is unknown. We have written this hoping that those considering following such moronic advice will research enough to find the truth prior to hurting themselves, or their loved ones.

Symptoms of Iodine Poisoning
Abdominal pain Coughing Delirium Diarrhea Fever Metallic taste in mouth Mouth and throat pain Inability to urinate		Seizures Shock Shortness of breath Stupor Excessive thirst Profuse vomiting Death

Other followers of Abraham and Brownstein allege that iodine itself is not toxic, and that the toxic effects only result from methanol being inside the over-the-counter products. They usually follow with boasts about Lugol's Iodine lacking methanol, while ignoring all the other toxicity facts about it. However, the National Institutes of Health specifically cites Lugol's Iodine as being poisonous, and even its fumes are dangerous whenever it is heated. The official medical term for toxic overexposure to iodine is iodism, and this condition is virtually always the result of oral consumption. No other mineral supplement requires environmental protection suits in their production process, because iodine synthesis is a dangerous and chemical-laden production process.

Some of those who are consuming pharmaceutical iodine (and even giving it to their children) believe that elemental iodine must be safe because iodine is added to salt and bread. This is actually not the case. It is normally trace amounts of potassium iodide (not iodine) that is added food items. It is a significantly less toxic chemical relative of iodine that somewhat helps to compensate for iodine deficiencies. While the safer iodide can be found inside the Lugol's solution, and inside of other standard iodine solutions, it is nonetheless mixed with toxic elemental iodine.

It is worth noting that iodine is much safer when combined with carbohydrates like bread, because starches are known to neutralize it. Thus, even if real iodine were inside breads, then the breads would neutralize that iodine. In fact, the excessive carbohydrate consumption of our Western diets of one of the many reasons why so many of us are lacking iodine. For this reason, victims of iodine consumption are recommended to eat bread by iodine manufacturers and poison control centers.

There has been a philosophical debate that has raged for eons about whether a people should be protected from themselves. However, there is no debate about whether children should be protected from bad adults. All of us in society have a shared duty to protect children from harm. It is our moral duty to report any parent who is poisoning a child with iodine, or any other toxic substance, to child protective services or other relevant governmental agencies. Contact us at The Health Wyze Report if you know of this happening to a child but you are too afraid to get involved. Poisoning a child is a symptom of the mental illness, Munchhausen by proxy, so the abuse will only get worse in time if there is no intervention. For some really bad parents out there, the book from Brownstein is the excuse they need.

Below is an audio recording to the N.C. Poison Control Center about the topic of ingesting iodine. Lugol's iodine is mentioned specifically in the call, since it is paraded as the gold standard of iodines that are safe to drink. The audio of the call may be downloaded from this link, or people may listen with the convenient player below.

Safe Ingestion Methods

The safest supplement for iodine is red marine algae, which can be purchased in capsule form. Other marine plants have toxins, such as heavy metals and P.C.B. The ideal source for iodine is baked fish. Beware of bottom feeders and shell fish, for they have the same same toxins that most underwater vegetation does, in addition to having toxins that they produce themselves. Pure potassium iodide is an acceptable solution for those who are careful not to overdose, but people should beware of impure products that include additives such as sodium benzoate, or even iodine. Potassium iodide should never be used by those with Hashimoto's Disease.

The Facts About Iodine Ingestion

• Lugol's Iodine Material Safety Data Sheet from Azer Scientific
• Lugol's Iodine Material Safety Data Sheet from Science Lab
• National Institutes of Health on Iodine Poisoning
• The California Bureau of Forensic Services

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First Aid For Iodine Poisoning: In the event that somebody is searching the Internet in a bid to quickly neutralize iodine: Give the person milk, cornstarch or flour, and continue to provide milk every 15 minutes. Starches (bread, flour, rice, potatoes, and other carbohydrates) greatly neutralize iodine. A dose of activated charcoal would be a wise choice too. DO NOT give these items if the patient is having symptoms that make it hard to swallow (such as vomiting, convulsions, or a decreased level of alertness). Contact Poison Control immediately. The U.S. National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) can be called from anywhere in the United States.

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Avoid Povidone Iodine

It is becoming increasingly difficult to know what sort of iodine to use, and a new form of iodine is being sold in stores. It is called Povidone Iodine, which is a mix of polyvinylpyrrolidone (P.V.P.) and elemental iodine. It is yet another substance that we shall only know of its consequences after a couple of decades have past.

There is no need to add another chemical to iodine as a preservative. The classic formula (water or alcohol, potassium iodide, and iodine) is highly effective, and comes with less side effects. Pure iodine is itself a disinfectant, so the addition of toxins to supposedly preserve it is merely another instance of useless chemical tainting. PVP (the "povidone") is said to simply pass through the body when taken orally, but is admitted to cause problems when injected. It is reported to cause pulmonary vascular injury in the latter case. Using iodine transdermally is the equivalent of injecting it into the blood, for it bypasses digestive filtration and decomposition. Observant readers will have noticed that polyvinylpyrrolidone contains 'vinyl'. After all of the controversy surrounding such plastics as PVC, can you imagine the effects of chronic exposure?

PVP does, however, have some technical applications:

• An adhesive in glue stick and hot melts
• A special additive for batteries, ceramics, fiberglass, inks, inkjet paper and in the chemical-mechanical planarization process
• An emulsifier and disintegrant for solution polymerization

There have been a disturbing number of cases in which people have gone into anaphylactic shock due to an allergy to the povidone in this iodine. It is considered hazardous by O.S.H.A. (the Occupational Safety and Health Administration), due to it causing breathing difficulty, and eye irritation. For the same reason, fire-fighters wear self-contained breathing apparatuses before they enter buildings containing this substance. There is also evidence to indicate that there is a cancer link.

Answering Reader Questions About Iodine

"If it is wrong to take iodine, why is Dr. Broewstein not sued by the public? If you poison people that is murder."

Getting a manslaughter charge would require proof that over a period of years that the iodine had directly led to a person's premature death, and obtaining such evidence would be difficult. In tiny amounts, the effects of oral iodine can be difficult to detect. Like with most toxins, people do not usually die directly from them, or die immediately. They are extremely harmful into the long term, nevertheless. The damage can happen at the cellular level, and not be seen for years, and then the effects can be rather unpredictable. For this reason, there are still debates about the effects of other toxins, such as heavy metals; just as it was with tobacco for generations. We know they are all bad, but it is impossible to determine just how bad, because every person and every lifestyle is impacted differently.

In the States, orally ingested iodine is known to be poisonous by the medical establishment, and poison control personnel are trained to deal with iodine emergencies. Most people who recommend oral iodine suggest drinking tiny amounts, but then the amount used is always increased, and it can quickly become dangerous. Drinking a bottle of it would almost certainly kill you if you did not have any carbohydrates that day.

A typical bottle of pharmaceutical grade iodine has a warning label that reads:

"Keep out of reach of children. In case of accidental ingestion, give milk, then give a starch solution make by mixing two tablespoons of cornstarch or flour to a pint of milk. Contact a poison control center immediately."

Starches (carbohydrates) are one of the main reasons why people seem uneffected by oral ingestion of elemental iodine. Carbohydrates neutralize orally consumed iodine, so people who supplement with iodine are often unable to get much of it into their bodies. It makes people who supplement with oral iodine doubly foolish since they are (1) supplementing orally with a known oral toxin and (2) supplementing with something that they cannot even get inside of their bodies in the desired dosages, because the body will work to rapidly expel the inorganic forms, and because of carbohydrate consumption.

Some supporters of oral iodine claim that iodine is added to bread and salt, and therefore it must be safe. In truth, it is potassium iodide, not iodine that is added to foods. Potassium iodide is much safer, but it is a different chemical to the one that these individuals are trying to sell us.

We do recommend topical applications of iodine, which is both safer, and more effective than oral supplements. For anyone who feels that he should or must take iodine orally, then red marine algae is an option. Avoid all other underwater vegetation, for it is likely to contain toxins, such as heavy metals and P.C.B. Lastly, iodide is much safer than iodine, and will help with deficiencies.

"I know someone who has long-standing untreated Hashimoto's disease and who has recently ingested Lugol's for about three weeks, 4 drops a day, except for 15 drops two days in the middle of that period of time. She was trying to self-treat after reading a book by Dr. Brownstein. She said that at first she felt more energy than she had ever had in their entire adult life. For the very first time, she felt well in that way and was very happy. She thought she'd be safe because she took all the vitamins and minerals Brownstein recommended along with the Lugol's, but she ended up poisoned. She is now experiencing severe symptoms, including severe insomnia, racing heart 24/7, and goiter. She complains of extremely heavy arms and legs and weakness of arms and legs, sore muscles in backs of thighs, and numbness or circulation problems in left-sided appendages and face. She also complains of swollen thyroid with difficulty swallowing and breathing. She has have been off Lugol's for two days now, and now is frightened. She has well water, not municipal water, and feels too weak to leave her home. She has read your article here on your website, and has asked me to write this for her because she feels too sick to get out of bed. Should I go out and get some municipal tap water for her to drink? She's afraid to do anything without asking around first. Any ideas for how to help someone with Hashimoto's who finds themselves in this situation, while they wait for a doctor's appt.?"

This is an emergency and conventional medicine does emergencies best. She is at an extremely high risk of having a heart attack.

In the meantime, lots of fluoridated tap water would probably help to neutralize the excess iodine. You need to get some cayenne and taurine (L-taurine) in her too, in order to help stabilize her blood pressure and her pulse. Remove all salt except for a daily pinch of pure unrefined sea salt. Also give L-arginine to relax the blood vessels. Vitamin E will help to thin the blood, so you may want to supplement in high doses with that, too. Three standard 400 I.U. vitamin E capsules will probably be ideal.

Put her on a high carbohydrate diet (lots of bread and pasta). Carbohydrates are sometimes used to neutralize iodine, and they might still help.

You can worry about safer and more natural therapies after the high risk of a heart attack passes. Until then, go with the doctors and treat this like the emergency that it is.

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