#121: Thyroid Thursday #5 — What About Iodine? How Your Thyroid Reacts When You Don’t Have Enough (or Too Much)

March 13, 2025

In this Episode:

Episode Summary:

Welcome back to another Thyroid Thursday episode, and as always, thank you for all of your pre-submitted questions! In this episode, I tackle a big one: How do I know if I need iodine, and how much do I need?

To kick things off, I share why iodine is so essential for thyroid function and what factors could be causing a deficiency, particularly in the U.S., where seafood and seaweed consumption are low on average. I’ll also discuss the impact of antagonistic elements like fluoride, which can block iodine absorption, creating a tug-of-war that can mess with your thyroid function.

Understanding symptoms of low iodine—like fatigue, depression, and even weight gain—can be your first clues, but lab tests can offer more concrete answers. We’ll explore two key tests: the hair tissue mineral analysis (HTMA) and the 24-hour iodine test by Hakala Labs. Plus, I’ll share the importance of prepping your body with iodine cofactors before supplementation to avoid any adverse reactions. If you’re considering iodine, knowing how to correctly test and supplement is critical, so make sure you listen carefully to avoid common pitfalls.

We wrap up by emphasizing the need to test and not guess, ensuring we approach iodine supplementation thoughtfully and safely. If you’re wondering about your own thyroid health and potential iodine deficiency as a root cause of any symptoms you’re having, this episode is packed with advice for how to look into iodine more deeply.

If you have a question you’d like me to discuss on the next Thyroid Thursday, please email me at podcast@shetalkshealth.com or sophie@shetalkshealth.com or DM me on Instagram @shetalkshealth. Enjoy this short and sweet episode of Thyroid Thursday!

To get your own Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis test, visit https://l.bttr.to/WfoEz to book today.

Disclaimer: This information is being provided to you for educational and informational purposes only. It is being provided to educate you about how to take care of your body and as a self-help tool for your own use so that you can reach your own health goals. It is not intended to treat or cure any specific illness and is not to replace the guidance provided by your own medical practitioner. If you are under the care of a healthcare professional or currently use prescription medications, you should discuss any dietary changes or potential dietary supplement use with your doctor, and should not discontinue any prescription medications without first consulting your doctor. This information is to be used at your own risk based on your own judgment. If you suspect you have a medical problem, we urge you to take appropriate action by seeking medical attention.