In the Iodine Dosages post we explained why 12.5 mg of iodine is still a good daily target for maintaining iodine levels and recommended a cautious approach when starting iodine supplementation. Iodine detox symptoms may show up for new users or those increasing to higher doses of iodine.

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. Here 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. You may temporarily experience one or more detox symptoms. 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 manage.

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

Being aware of these symptoms beforehand will help you avoid a panic and allow you to respond appropriately. Start slow. Symptoms are temporary. Moreover, your body will be moving towards a healthier balanced state to enjoy without effort.

Mitigating Iodine Detox Symptoms

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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 also help.

• • • exercise
    • supplement with milk thistle and probiotics
    • relax with hot baths and saunas
    • help remove toxins through the skin with dry brushing
    • minimize exposure to bromide and fluoride
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Exercise

Exercise will help you to sweat more and push toxic elements out through the skin. It improves blood circulation which will help the iodine and supporting nutrients reach all parts of the body. Movement and exercise supports the lymphatic system which in turn will help with exercise.

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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

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Hot Baths

Great for detox by aiding the lymphatic system and helping remove toxins from the skin. A opportunity to soak up other supporting minerals like magnesium by adding Epsom Salts.

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Sauna

The skin is the largest detoxifying organ in the body and sweating is a key exit point for toxins. Saunas improve circulation so the iodine will move well throughout the body. Improved lymph function will help move toxic elements out of the body by various means.

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Minimize Bromide and Fluoride Exposure

Avoid the following as much as possible:

• Bakery Goods
• Soft Drinks
• Fire Retardants in Carpets, Drapes, Mattresses
• Hot Tub and 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 with having adequate iodine in the body.

Refer to our Iodine Guide now available on the website.