Iodine is used primarily by the thyroid gland to synthesize thyroid hormone.

60% of the body's iodine is pooled in the thyroid gland with the remainder found in the blood, ovaries and muscles.

Iodine aids and is necessary for the regulation of human growth and development.  Helps burn excess fat, produces more energy, improves mental clarity, promotes healthy hair, nails, skin and teeth.

Best food sources include haddock, herring, whiting, kelp, seaweeds, clams, lobster, oysters, sardines and iodized salt.

Warning:  iodine deficiency may occur if iodine is consumed with high intakes of goitrogens, naturally occurring substances in foods which decrease iodine availability or interfere with its tissue utilization.  Dietary sources of goitrogens include cabbage, turnips, rapeseed oil (canola oil), peanuts cassava and soybeans.  Goitrogens are inactivated by heating, roasting or cooking.

Suggested dosage of 120 - 150 mcg/d i.e. 1 tsp of iodized salt contains 400 mcg.

Minerals are found abundantly in the soil and water of the planet and eventually are taken in by the root systems of plants. Human beings obtain minerals by eating the plants or by eating the animals that eat the plants. If you eat a variety of meats and vegetables in your diet, you can usually depend on getting a sufficiency of minerals.

The minerals in the body play a part in variety of metabolic processes and contribute to the synthesis of such elements as glycogen, protein, and fats.

For the best sources of minerals please consult the USDA website.