I have been practicing medicine for over 20 years. During this time, I have seen an astounding rise in the use of prescription drugs and vaccines—both of which have failed to halt the escalation of chronic illnesses that are plaguing the U.S. population. Here is a list of some of the illnesses that are increasing at epidemic rates: ADHD, autism, autoimmune thyroid disorders including Hashimoto’s and Graves’ disease, as well as cancer of the breast, ovary, uterus, and thyroid. In fact, one in seven women in the U.S. are suffering from breast cancer while one in three men have prostate cancer. What does each of these conditions have in common? The answer is easy; each of these conditions can be caused by iodine deficiency.
Knowing this, it is unbelievable to me that, in 2013, we are still suffering from an epidemic of iodine deficiency. I have been researching and writing about iodine deficiency for over 12 years. I, along with my partners, have checked over 6,000 patients for their iodine status and have found that over 95% are deficient in iodine and most are severely deficient. This is a public health nightmare that is not being recognized by most physicians. Why is that? Most physicians have no idea how to properly check for iodine sufficiency and have no knowledge how to supplement their patients with iodine.
This blog post was prompted by the latest statistics on the iodine status of women of pregnancy age released by the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2007-2010.(1) Studying iodine levels in women of pregnancy age is very important because a pregnant woman needs to have adequate amounts of iodine in order for the fetus to develop normally. It has been known for well over 100 years that children born to iodine deficient mothers can suffer irreversible neurologic problems including cretinism. Furthermore, insufficient maternal iodine during pregnancy can result in a permanently lowered IQ as well as thyroid problems.
The recent NHANES study reported that the majority—56%–of women of childbearing age were deficient in iodine. Furthermore, 37% of the young women studied were moderately deficient and 15% were severely deficient. These numbers were slightly worse than the NHANES data from 1970. Folks, these numbers are scary.
For over 12 years, I have been lecturing across the country about iodine deficiency. This message needs to be heard and acted upon by the highest levels of the U.S. Government. If we don’t rectify this problem, I fear our country is in for a rough ride in the years ahead.
More information about iodine can be found in my book, Iodine: Why You Need It, Why You Can’t Live Without It, 4th Edition.
(1) Thyroid. Vol. 23. No. 8. 2013
Dr. Brownstein:
In your years of research with Iodine, do you believe it can kill Intacellular Bacteria?
Thanks,
Bonnie
Dear Doctor, thank You very much for Your reply! Now I know everything I need to know to begin spreading the word about iodine in my iodine-deficient and highly iodophobic country, Hungary, and in my second home, the even more iodine-deficient Armenia where about 30% of the females I know have goiter…
God bless and keep You and Your colleagues for all Your dedication and efforts! You are the angels of health! (I mean it.)
As for Mr. Zava, I think he would be of much more benefit to the world if he acquired some more humility, just as is the case with Dr. Mercola and Chris Kresser…
All the best to You,
Laszlo Szabo
Dear Dr. B,
I am extremely greatful to You for what You have done for people including me, and I am an enthusiastic follower of Your recommendations, however, I recently read an intriguing article by Theodore Zava about the alleged unreliability of the 24-hour iodine loading test, which made me worry a bit. What is Your take on this?
Here is the link to the article:
http://www.townsendletter.com/Jan2013/iodine0113.html
All the best to You,
Laszlo
Laszlo,
We published a response in the latest Townsend Letter. Here it is:
In reviewing the article in your January 2013 magazine, “Evaluation of the Iodine Loading Test: Urine Iodine Excretion Kinetics after Consumption of 50mg Iodine/Iodide” by Theodore Zava of ZRT Laboratories several points need clarification.
The iodine project, initiated by Dr. Guy Abraham, MD, goal was to investigate the role of iodine in human health and to propose a systematic approach to evaluate iodine supplementation. The idea of whole body iodine sufficiency was a new concept that recognized that iodine is necessary for not only the thyroid gland but many other body systems.
1. When Mr. Zava compares the de Benoist findings of 89% iodine sufficiency in the United States with data showing iodine deficiency reported to be greater than 90% he is comparing two completely different measures of iodine status. De Benoist is simply looking at minimal iodine levels that will prevent goiter not whole-body iodine sufficiency.
We do not believe that this presents confusion when one understands the difference in the two protocols. We are in agreement with the WHO that small microgram amounts of iodine are adequate to prevent goiter in the vast majority of the population. However, iodine has many other uses in the body including maintaining the normal architecture of all the glandular tissues including the breast, ovary, and uterus.
The traditional spot iodine test is a useful tool that can be used to estimate whether iodine intake is adequate. However, this test provides no useful information on iodine status after iodine therapy has been instituted. That is why the 24-hour loading test was developed—it provides a measurement of whole-body iodine status. Zava states, “…if iodine supplementation is not discontinued for several days before testing, residual supplemental iodine will be excreted along with the 50mg loading dose, giving a tes result showing a false high excretion.” He is correct. We wish Mr. Zava had called any of the four major laboratories who currently offer the iodine loading test– FFP Laboratory, Labrix, Doctors Data and Hakala Research—since they all recommend stopping iodine supplementation 48 hours before starting the test.
Zava recommends extending the collection period past 24 hours. This is impractical and unnecessary. As discussed by Drs. Abraham and Brownstein (1) the iodine loading test evolved from testing subjects who ingested varying milligram (12.5-50mg) amounts of iodine and then collecting 24 hours of urine. The subjects who had the best clinical responses achieved 90% or more iodine excretion after following the iodine loading test parameters. Although the 90% excretion level was chosen arbitrarily, it appears to give the best clinical results.
Zava recommend doing 24 hour fecal testing of iodine levels. Again, this is impractical and unnecessary. Fecal iodine excretion levels amount to approximately 2% (Williams Textbook of Endocrinology, 9th edition 1998, page 392). Fecal excretion of 2% has been confirmed on a patient taking 100mg of Iodoral daily (data on file Hakala Research).
One final note. Although spot urine or salivary iodine testing provides useful information on individual and population iodine intake, it provides no information on whole body iodine status. In fact, our (DB and JF) clinical experiences, after testing thousands of patients with spot testing has shown that it does not correlate clinically after patients begin ingesting milligram amounts of iodine. To date, we feel that the iodine loading test is the most accurate measurement of whole body iodine status.
David Brownstein, M.D.
Jorges Flechas, M.D.
Charles Hakala,
Dr. B., I watched an interview of you with another doctor that was created in 2011 after the Japanese reactor event. It was a very detailed discussion about mitigating the effects of the radioactive fallout with iodine supplementation. My question is – does iodine mitigate the effects of all radiation – like if you get your knee x-rayed, etc. If radiation accumulates in your body, does iodine supplementation (“done right”) flush it out? Thanks.
Dr. Brownstein, I have been taking iodine since 2000 when it was discovered that I had a goiter starting. The irony was that the doctor who discovered it recommended that I see my own doctor for a thyroid check. I told him that a goiter was caused by iodine deficiency. He said yes, but………. I proceeded to go get tested by my chiropractor who could muscle test me and determine the deficiency. He said yes I needed the highest dose and two months later no more goiter. I am so thrilled that you are now stepping out with all of the information regarding the atrocities the drug companies, government, and AMA have put on us since my memory of the 1960’s. The worst since 1994. We are the guinea pigs walking blindly into this drug made holocaust. I am now studying to be a licensed massage therapist in Michigan. I am 65 years old and will do my best to continue to educate who ever is willing to listen. I refer people to your website all the time. I studied iridology under Dr. Bernard Jensen in the 1980’s and have never forgotten his words of wisdom. “If primary care physicians did more educating they would have to do less medicating.” I am proud of your work.
Thank you Dr. Brownstein for your work with iodine and other health related topics. Your book on Iodine was life changing for me, and I have shared it with family and friends who have also benefited. It is amazing how something so simple can have such a profound effect on overall health.
I took a patch test but decided that regardless of the result I would take Iodine anyway. I had Graves Disease for 10-years but it went undiagnosed for 8 of those years thanks to incompetent Western Doctors. I had tried everything to cure my own illness because the Western alternative was not an option for me. After months of research I stumbled across one of your seminars on YouTube and the rest is history. I have been in remission for 2 years now and I even had PCOS and painful breasts which also cleared up completely on the Iodine (Lugols solution). I just want to say thank you Dr. Brownstein. You’re even making a difference in people’s lives who live on the other side of the globe. I’m hoping you make it to Australia one day because it would be amazing to meet you in person 🙂
Thought of another question, concerning reproductive cancers and iodine. Obviously theoretically, could you give a quasi statistic and/or a quasi projection on how taking the prescribed iodine might change an outlook for say … a man, 60 years old, whose father developed prostate cancer after 65? For example, “…his chances of developing it without taking the iodine would be 80%; his risk is reduced 65% by taking iodine at appropriately prescribed levels for “x” number of years …”
Thanks!
Hi,
Does taking Lugol’s solution (and/or Iodoral) change gene disposition? Yes, I’ve memorized the Iodine book, but with all the hoo-ha about Angelina Jolie’s recent surgery due to her genes, it made me think of this question. Thanks much.
I am not in an area where I can find progressive holistic doctors. I am in the process of reading your books. Where do I find an iodine supplement?
Jeane,
I would encourage you to have your levels tested first. The FFP, Hakala, and Doctor’s Data all do iodine testing. As for finding iodine, we have it at my office. The website is; http://www.centerforholisticmedicine.com.
DrB
Dear Dr. Brownstein:
I recently, wanting to get a better understanding of why iodine deficiency in America seems to be such a pervasive problem, entered the following “Google” on my computer: “Mayo Clinic-iodine deficiency”. I was amazed at what came up. A Mayo Clinic endocrinologist’s picture appeared. His name: Todd B. Nippoldt, M.D. Iodine deficiency in the USA is very rare was his opening statement. Our iodine needs were satisfied with the addition of iodine to table salt. How wrong could anyone be? I’m not interested in making him seem foolish but it is quite troublesome that he represents the prestigious Mayo Clinic. Ordinary people really tune in when the Mayo Clinic name is uttered. I live in California and have heard people proudly pronounce that they traveled to the Mayo Clinic for special treatment.
Sincerely,
andyogi
Dear Andyogi,
In the U.S., iodine deficiency is anything but rare. There is not enough iodine in table salt to satisfy the body’s need for iodine. Not in our toxic world. At my office, over 6,000 patients have been tested and over 95% are deficient in iodine. That is not rare.
DrB
Dear Dr. Brownstein:
Thank you for your wonderfully researched book on iodine. And you have made it so readable for average people. What makes your approach so effective is your observation of what happens at the cellular level. This is the new approach to dealing with human health. I just wish the typical M.D.’s out there would try to catch up with the latest science instead of repeating the same old mistakes friom the past regarding iodine.
Just know there are people out there that get what your saying and we support you totally.
Sincerely,
Andyogi
At the suggestion of my eye doctor, I supplemented with Iodoral (12.5 mg/day) for dry eyes, and my eyes dramatically improved on this therapy. After about two years of therapy, I wanted to know if perhaps I was taking too much iodine/iodide, and I asked my healthcare provider to order an iodine test. (Unfortunately, I had had no baseline testing done.) With supplementation, my serum iodine level (175 mcg/L) was flagged as high, with a “normal range” listed as 52-109 mcg/L. Incidentally, after reciving the “high” result, I decreased my Iodoral supplement, and my dry eye problems have since returned. I am now wondering if the so-called “normal range” reflects the average values seen in the general population, most of whom are likely iodine deficient. What do you consider to be a healthy/optimal serum iodine level? Is the serum iodine test an appropriate measure, or would you recommend a different test?
Carol,
A serum iodine level is not helpful when you are taking iodine. It is better to do a 24-hour iodine loading test. FFP labs, Doctor’s Data, and Hakala labs can all do this test.
DrB
Dr.Brownstein,thank you for leading the way on proper iodine supplementation. I have a new and better health supplementing with 12.5 mg iodoral along with 5000 iu of vitamin D, 500mg or more of Magnesium Chloride,200mcg Selenium and 15-30 mg of optizinc and fish oil daily. A winning combination for good health!…proper nutrition as the most important factor though.
I have Hashimo’s and have been told I shouldn’t take iodine. What are your thoughts?
Kim,
Not everyone says that! Hashimoto’s has been increasing at epidemic rates over the last 40 years. During this same time, iodine levels have fallen over 50% across the U.S. I treat nearly all of my Hashimoto’s patients with iodine. I would suggest looking at what I have written and finding an iodine-knowledgeable health care provider to work with.
DrB
Dr Brownstein, what brand of iodine do you recommend?
Taya,
I recommend using a combination of both iodine and iodide. Lugol’s solution, Iodoral, and Iodozyme HP are all examples of iodine supplements that contain both sources of iodine.
DrB
Can excess iodine cause elevated TSH levels or damage to the pituitary gland?
I saw you on Dr. Becker’s show and want to thank you for your desire to educate us 🙂
Laurie,
Iodine can cause a temporary elevation of TSH levels. This is a normal and expected finding as TSH is needed to simulate iodine transport molecules–known as NIS. The elevated TSH normally resolves in 3-6 months for most. As for damaging the pituitary gland, I have not seen this.
DrB
Thanks Dr B. What can I do as a parent to help my children get the iodine they need? They are picky eaters and I am not going to ask them to take some of my seaweed extract pills!
Justin
Justin,
Iodine is an essential nutrient for both adults and children. Children can supplement with iodine when needed. It is best to work with an iodine-knowledgeable health care provider.
DrB
How do I get more iodine in my diet? I am now using the celtic sea salt
Vicky,
There is very little iodine in unrefined salt. You can increase iodine in the diet by eating more seafood or supplementing with iodine.
DrB
Is Depression one of the symptoms of iodine deficiency? My daughter has just learned that she is very low in iodine and she’s experiencing major depression and feelings of low self-esteem. Will taking iodine supplements correct the problem or is it more involved than that?
Pat,
Yes, depression can be a symptom of iodine deficiency. However, there are many other underlying causes of depression. It is best to work with a health care provider knowledgeable about iodine and other therapies that help treat/prevent depression.
DrB
I believe we do have a serious health condition in this country evidenced by the Iodine deficiency. This issue and many other health related issues can not and will not be solved by government action. As a matter of fact, most current national health problems have been caused or magnified by years of government actions, not inaction. We need to take our individual health into our own hands an take care of our selves and our families and stop looking to any government for care.
I had blood work done and the Doctor wanted to put me on meds due to iron deficiency. I refused and said that I wanted to change up my diet to see if that would take care of it. I researched to find out that soy could be the issue. I was eating a lot of soy products. So, I removed all soy except for Tempeh and I started eating lots of Kale baked in olive oil with sea salt. I went for blood work 6 weeks later and I was in the normal range.
How long should a person (female) take Iodoral supplement?
Allan,
Iodine is an essential ingredient; we cannot live without it. Therefore, one needs adequate iodine levels for their entire life.
DrB
Dr. Brownstein, thank you for your years of work on iodine. The issue is not just iodine but four or five critical deficiencies that the government should act on. Iodine, vitamin D, magnesium, and sulfate are vital to preventing chronic disease.
Until our government stops thinking that the economy is more critical than our health we are in trouble. I tried for two years to make something happen, but realized that meeting with my congressman was a waste of time as long as HHS believes that ‘Markets before mandates’ is more important than to ‘value life’. Under HHS Secretary Leavitt the first was his number four principle and to value life was his last at number nine. It is going to take doctors and scientist like you with enough ‘guts’ or without fear of loosing their income to stand up and be leaders.
Thanks again and good health,
Mark Pegram
How should we test for iodine? I know about the patch test on the arm. Is that accurate? If not, which blood or other test should my doctor order?
Rebecca,
The patch test is not an accurate test. The best test is the iodine loading test. You can find this test on-line. It is best to work with an iodine-knowledgeable doctor.
DrB
Hi,
I had always believed that the iodine that is added to salt was enough to satisfy our need for this nutrient. Is that not true?
Thanks for creating this very helpful blog.
Judy Sturm