In the previous post we explained why 12.5 mg of elemental iodine is still a good daily target for maintaining iodine levels and recommended a cautious approach when starting iodine supplementation.
There are 3 phases to consider when starting on iodine: detox, replenishment, and maintenance. During detox we recommend the cautious approach. Once detox symptoms are no longer present then we can increase the dosage for a time even above the recommended maintenance amount. Finally we settle on the maintenance phase which we recommend most users take 12.5 mg of elemental iodine daily. In this post we explore symptoms of detox when some users start supplementing with iodine and provide tips on how to help mitigate these symptoms.
During the detox phase the iodine and selenium will be displacing bromide, fluoride, chloride and some toxic heavy metals from your body. During this time you may experience one or more detox symptoms temporarily. Do not increase the dosage while experiencing detox symptoms. Maintain the same dosage or reduce dosage to a comfortable level that can be sustained and consider other challenges and stresses of daily life that you will also have to endure.
Iodine Detox Symptoms include:
- bursts of energy
- vivid dreams
- acne
- headache
- anxiety
- mood swings and irritability
- dark thoughts and depression
- more saliva
- body odor
- bloating and temporary weight gain
- cherry angiomas (skin growths)
- eyelid or foot twitches
It is important to be aware of these symptoms beforehand so that you do not panic and can respond appropriately. Start slow and know that these symptoms are temporary. Moreover, your body will be moving towards a healthier state and so you will have ongoing positive effects to look forward to.
Mitigating Iodine Detox Symptoms
Drinking water that contains dissolved Himalayan Rock Salt or Celtic Salt will help the detox process along. These salts bind to bromide and other toxic elements displaced by iodine. Add just enough salt to soften the water by taste.
In addition to having salt water the following self-care actions can also be taken.
- exercise
- supplement with milk thistle and probiotics
- relax with hot baths and saunas
- help remove toxins through the skin with dry brushing and exfoliating
- minimize exposure to bromide and fluoride
Exercise. Exercising will help you to sweat more and push toxic elements out of the body through the skin. It will improve blood circulation which will help the iodine and supporting nutrients reach all parts of the body. It will also improve the lymphatic system which in turn will help with detox.
Milk Thistle. As toxic elements are displaced by iodine the liver may take on a greater burden. Milk Thistle will support the liver which in turn can improve and speed up the detox process.
Probiotics. These friendly bacteria can restore balance in the intestines and improve the absorption of minerals. They also help detoxify the body of heavy metals, free radicals and dangerous bacteria.
Hot Baths. Great for detox by aiding the lymphatic system and helping remove toxins from the skin. It’s also a great opportunity to soak up other supporting minerals like magnesium by adding Epsom Salts.
Sauna. The skin is the largest detoxifying organ in the body and sweating is a key exit point for toxic elements. Saunas also improve circulation so the iodine will move well throughout the body. Better circulation and improved lymph function will also help move toxic elements out of the body by various means.
Dry Brushing and Exfoliating. Boosts circulation and stimulates the lymphatic system. Removing dead skin that can clog pores so that toxins can be released more easily through sweating or otherwise.
Minimize Bromide and Fluoride Exposure.
Avoid the following as much as possible:
- Bakery Goods
- Soft Drinks
- Fire Retardants in Carpets, Drapes, Mattresses
- Hot Tub & Swimming Pool Treatments
- Pesticides and Non-Organic Produce
- Fluoridated Drinking Water
- Toothpaste with Fluoride
- Deodorants containing aluminum
The benefits of these self-care acts are numerous and they will be compounded while having adequate iodine in the body. Refer to our Iodine Guide now available on the website.