Why should I care about iodine?

Iodine is one of the most important minerals for healthy cellular and metabolic function.* There was a time when iodine figured big into the American diet, especially after the connection between goiters and iodine deficiency was made clear, leading to the formulation of iodized table salt. However, with more recent concerns about sodium intake, there may be even less iodine in the American diet than there was just 50 years ago. In fact, it has been estimated that the entire American population is deficient in iodine, possibly due to changes in diet and a reduction in the use of table salt. Additionally, certain toxic minerals “compete” with iodine. As we are exposed to greater levels of chlorine, bromine (bromide) and fluoride, the body requires more iodine for ongoing detoxification.

What exactly is “tyrosine” or “L-tyrosine”?

Tyrosine is an amino acid. It is generally considered a “conditionally essential” amino acid because the body can typically synthesize adequate amounts of tyrosine from phenylalanine. However, in addition to thyroid hormone support, supplemental tyrosine has been found to be beneficial for mood, stress relief, and mental function.* Food sources include cheese, eggs, almonds, and avocados. Tyrosine, (also called “L-tyrosine”) is the precursor for the formation of the thyroid hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), as well as epinephrine, norepinephrine and dopamine.*