The 20th century and of course the 21st century have seen an upsurge in invisible electromagnetic and radioactive radiations, causing chronic fatigue and immune diseases as well as a variety of cancers. We have become surrounded and besieged by such emissions from home electrical appliances to gigantic TV, radio, and microwave transmission towers. How can we escape such ubiquitous bombardments or at least minimize their effects? Do not despair; nature has a convenient solution for you. If we are unable to purify our air from atmospheric emissions, which have unfortunately become part and parcel of our environment, then at least we can counteract them with simple effective measures. We shall see how.
Iodine, the trace mineral, is your best dietary protection against radiation. This natural salt (iodide) found in certain foods acts as a radiation filter, preventing its uptake by the thyroid glands and shielding our glandular system and organs from electromagnetic damage. The forerunner in nutritional iodine is kelp, a highly nutritious seaweed (kombu) much used in Japanese cuisine. Kelp is sold dry or in powder or granulated forms in health stores; it is also used as a condiment to enhance the flavor of food. Kelp supplements are available as well. Fish and seafood provide good amounts of iodine. Garlic, cabbage, kale, and broccoli, sulphur rich vegetables, offer adequate iodine, but in excess, these vegetables and soybeans can drain iodine from the body in case of under active thyroids. Ginseng root is a good provider of the mineral, too.
With the help of iodine, the thyroid glands play an important part in maintaining the healthy functions of the immune system by engulfing bacteria and foreign bodies. But, when iodine is insufficient in the body, fluoride takes over and disrupts thyroid functions, resulting in thyroidism, weight gain, fatigue, and depression. Iodine deficiency has been linked to breast cancer.
Iodine intake reduces breast tenderness and pain in woman with estrogen dominance. To ensure mammary health, oral iodine, magnesium, selenium, and alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) are strongly recommended. Iodine in douches and vaginal pessaries treats fungal and bacterial infections.
Iodine is an effective antiseptic that is antibacterial and antifungal, much used for pre-surgery preparations, strep throats, wounds, and oral rinses for sores. It also helps repair tissue and speeds the healing process. According to some doctors, topical iodine is “effective against precancerous skin lesions.”
In remote Indian villages, children with iodine deficiency suffered from goiters, a condition that caused them to become slow learners and less motivated. Studies showed that cumulative iodine deficiency is a suspect in causing minor nerve damage at a young age, which slows down learning abilities, leaving an impact with age. Thyroid malfunction due to iodine insufficiency disrupts hormonal functions as well, which influence intelligence and learning skills.
Rich sources of iodine come from kelp (seaweed), saltwater fish, sea salt, and seafood. Other foods also provide iodine. These are asparagus, garlic, cabbage family, beans, mushrooms, sesame seeds, spinach, summer squash, Swiss chord, and turnip greens. As mentioned above, certain vegetables and greens when consumed raw can block the absorption of iodine in the thyroid gland, slowing down the thyroid functions. Thus, with under active thyroids, Brussels’ sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, peaches, pears, spinach, and turnips should not be consumed with caution.
Supplements and dietary intake of nutrients should be delicately balanced to keep body equilibrium. While nutrients complement each other and work synergistically to provide you with energy, health, and wellness, an imbalance can leave you depleted, undernourished, and disease-stricken. Do not tip the balance. Many a disorder is sparked by a simple imbalance!