Iodine supplementation can be an effective therapy for breast and uterine fibroids. It is also used with breast cancer patients. Iodine is also important for thyroid function. However, there are many medical experts who agree that a diagnosis of Hashimoto’s means you should avoid iodine both as a supplement and in iodine-rich foods.
Dr. Datis Kharrazian, DC (Why Do I Still Have Thyroid Symptoms When My Lab Tests are Normal?) writes that iodine is a major cofactor and stimulator for TPO (thyroid peroxidase). A cofactor – usually a vitamin, mineral, enzyme or nutrient – is something that is used to build something else inside the body. TPO triggers thyroid production. When you have Hashimoto’s, TPO is under attack by your immune system. Increased iodine, especially as a supplement, increases the immune attack on the thyroid.
Iodine rich food are seafoods, seaweed and iodized salt. In countries where iodine has been added to table salt, the rates of autoimmune thyroid disease have risen. (Chris Kresser, Health for the 21st Century – Iodine for Hypothyroidism: Crucial Nutrient or Harmful Toxin?)
When it comes to salt, Legacy recommends any unprocessed sea salt. We feel this is a much healthier alternative to ionized table salts.