INGREDIENT
Iodine
An essential mineral that influences many processes in the body.
Iodine is an often overlooked yet indispensable trace element, necessary for a wide range of bodily functions, including the thyroid, digestion, skin, blood vessels and the brain.
An iodine deficiency can lead to various health problems.
The importance of Iodine
The body cannot produce iodine on its own and is fully dependent on intake through food or supplements.
In our AM spray, we use iodine in the form of potassium iodide.
This form is well researched, chemically stable, and suitable for precise dosing. Important for a mineral with a relatively narrow optimal intake range.
Iodine is an essential mineral required for the production of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4). These hormones regulate metabolism and are involved in energy use, growth and neurological development.
Iodine:
These functions are recognised by EFSA and supported by medical literature.
The recommended iodine intake for adults is around 150 micrograms per day. Whether this level is reached through diet depends strongly on food choices and eating patterns.
Using iodised salt can help, but it is not always consistently absorbed or used. Natural iodine intake is often associated with seaweed products, which also provide additional minerals.
However, iodine levels in seaweed vary greatly by species and portion size, making moderation and variation important.
The best natural sources of iodine include:
Actual iodine content depends heavily on soil, origin, and food processing.
In practice, consistent iodine intake is not always guaranteed, due to:
As a result, iodine is internationally recognised as a nutrient of concern in micronutrient intake.
In some countries, iodine was added to bread through iodised salt to help address deficiencies. However, many people now consume little or no bread due to gluten intolerance, insulin resistance, or dietary preferences.
Iodine deficiency during childhood is a major cause of impaired brain development, affecting both cognitive and motor function.
Iodine is so important for the brain that it is sometimes referred to as a “brain-selective nutrient.” During pregnancy, adequate iodine intake is essential to support the baby’s brain development.
Slightly higher intakes are usually regulated by the body and excreted through urine.
However, extremely high intakes may disrupt thyroid function, especially in people with existing thyroid conditions.
