Thyroid Gland
The thyroid gland is located in the front of the neck and is responsible for secreting thyroid hormones to regulate the body’s metabolism. When the thyroid produces hormones to regulate metabolism it generates heat. People who have a low functioning thyroid called hypothyroidism are usually cold all the time and having difficulty staying warm. In the morning their basal temperature is usually a whole degree below the normal temperature of 98.6.
Symptoms of low functioning thyroid include: fatigue, loss of appetite, inability to tolerate cold, slow heart rate, weight gain, painful menstrual periods, milky discharge from the breasts, fertility problems, muscle weakness, muscle cramps, dry, scaly skin, hair loss, depression, and migraines, to name a few. We see how important the thyroid gland is in all aspects of body regulation. The neck may become enlarged if the thyroid continues to struggle to produce hormones. By enlarging the surface area, the gland is trying to keep up with the body’s demands.
Thyroid regulation is sometimes difficult and various attempts may be tried using supplements in the form of herbs or desiccated thyroid gland. Iodine supplementation is recognized today as an essential component of thyroid care. Iodine is necessary for the thyroid gland to manufacture its hormones. Most people do not get enough iodine in their diets, and need to supplement this mineral. The amount in iodized salt is inadequate and the wrong form to be utilized safely.
The fluoride in the water we drink as well as the bromide in many baked goods displaces the necessary iodine we need in the body because the fluoride and bromide take up the receptor sites reserved for iodine.
Not only is iodine important for the thyroid gland, it has also been shown to be beneficial in reducing breast lumps and cysts. Iodine is recommended for thyroid health and healthy breast tissue.
