Page 30 - The Autoimmune Protocol

The Autoimmune Protocol

located in the neck. It is comprised of two lobes that
are connected by an isthmus. It is an important part
of our endocrine system. It is primarily responsible
for the production of hormones that help to regulate
the metabolism.

Our metabolism is a very important component of
how our bodies function. It controls the conversion of
the food we eat into energy, as well as the conversion
of food to vital proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and
nucleic acids. It is also responsible for how our bodies
eliminate nitrogenous wastes. Our metabolism can
control everything from digestion and heart rate to
how we grow and reproduce. For this reason, the significance of this bodily function being
regulated in the thyroid should never be underestimated.

The Thyroid and Iodine
In order for the thyroid to properly function, it relies on an element called iodine. Our
bodies do not naturally produce this element, so we solely rely on our diet to obtain it.
Interestingly enough, we need the correct balance of iodine in order for our thyroid to
function properly. This means that too much, as well as too little, could cause an issue.
When we eat foods with iodine, the element enters the bloodstream and cells in the
thyroid capture it. These cells use the iodine to create thyroid hormones that go on to
regulate the metabolism, as well as many other vital systems in the body.

Depending on a person’s age, around 90-150 micrograms of iodine each day is required
for proper thyroid function. Thankfully, it is relatively easy to get this amount because
many foods contain commendable amounts of this element. Pregnant and lactating
women need considerably more iodine (around 220-290 micrograms) in order for their
thyroid to function. However, it is important to stay within these recommended amounts.
Too much iodine during pregnancy and lactation is also unsafe.

Healthy ways to make sure you are consuming the proper amounts of iodine include
eating wild caught fish and seafood, free-range eggs, and organic yogurt. Seaweed is an
excellent source of iodine. It contains over 40 micrograms of iodine per sheet. If you know
you have an iodine deficiency that is causing issues with the thyroid, you might consider
adding kelp to your diet.

Iodine and Hashimoto’s Disease

Occasionally, high doses of iodine have been prescribed for those with thyroid diseases
like Hashimoto’s disease. However, studies are showing that high doses of iodine can
actually make the disease worse and lead to issues with thyroid abnormalities. Although

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