Iodine testing and supplementing
Iodine testing and supplementing
Iodine is a very understated supplement that we realized it was time to invite into our lives.
It is a supplement with wide-ranging effects on overall health, not only on the thyroid gland, as is commonly believed, therefore we decided to include it among our supplements.
First stage - how to check for iodine deficiency.
Second stage - guidelines for iodine supplementation.
Ioding Testing
The iodine we use comes in the form of Lugol’s solution, either 2% or 5%.
For the purpose of this test, we will use only the 2% solution.
Take your hand, specifically the forearm area between the wrist and the elbow, on the softer side of the arm. Place exactly 2 drops on a spot where you can spread them into a 5 x 5 cm square, apply the iodine and spread it so it forms that square shape.
Let it dry for two minutes, then take a photo and send it to us.
After that, over the next 24 hours, take a photo every hour and send it. (Don't wake up for it) The test is intended to last 24 hours. It is best not to wash the area during this time, or until the color disappears completely.
Report how long it takes for the color to disappear. It is recommended to start immediately after a shower in the morning.
Reading the results
If the color does not fade and disappear within the first 24 hours, you are not deficient in iodine.
If the color disappears before the 24 hours are over, there is definitely a deficiency. The faster it disappears, the more deficient you are.
Ioding Supplementation
Supplement Types
There are many iodine supplements on the market. We chose Lugol’s solution, prepared by a pharmacist we trust, to ensure optimal treatment. For those who need higher amounts and find the drops difficult, we have also found a tablet option.
Lugol’s comes in two concentrations:
2% - for testing and initial treatment
5% - for maintaining more advanced doses over time
Tablets - Iodorale
How To Take Iodine Supplements
First thing in the morning (important! otherwise it may interfere with sleep), place one drop of Lugol’s 2% in water and drink it on an empty stomach.
After two days, or several days (we will provide personal guidance in cases where a more gradual increase is needed), increase to two drops, and continue gradually until reaching:
5 drops (12.5 mg). If this still feels comfortable and does not trigger detox reactions (from chlorine or fluoride), you may move to the 5% solution.
From the 5% solution, take two drops (12.5 mg).
Any increase beyond this dosage should be done only with our personal guidance if needed.
The tablets can be used instead of the 5% solution (half a tablet = one drop), or as a replacement for two drops of the 5% solution (one full tablet = 12.5 mg).
Tips for those taking Iodine drops
If you add acidic vitamin C powder to the water with the iodine, about 1/4 teaspoon, along with a pinch of pure stevia powder, the color, smell, and taste of the iodine disappear, and you get a pleasant lemonade instead.
An additional important tip. If, while increasing the dosage, the body reacts in an uncomfortable way, most commonly in the digestive system but sometimes in other ways, remember this: it is probably not a reaction to the iodine itself, but rather to the gradual release of chlorine and fluoride stored in the body. It is important to report this to us immediately, and it is advisable to reduce the dosage to avoid unnecessary discomfort during the process.
A true allergy to iodine is not particularly logical, somewhat like being allergic to oxygen.
Supportive Supplementation
Because iodine tends to push out chlorine and fluoride, and other halogens, if you were exposed to certain modern medications from that family, the process can be slightly uncomfortable. That is normal.
To reduce discomfort, several supportive components are recommended:
One level teaspoon of salt. We recommend sodium ascorbate powder, a buffered form of vitamin C. It can simply be sprinkled over a salad.
200 mcg of selenium, which is found in the multivitamins we recommend.
Optimal vitamin C and zinc, as mentioned above.
Important !!!
It is important to report to us at every stage, which dosage you are increasing to, and how you are feeling.
It is much easier for us to help when we have a live picture of the process rather than trying to assess it retrospectively.
If you experience distress, it is better not to rely only on written reporting, but also to call us directly.
It is very common that the digestive tract reacts during this process. Since Ioding tends to tackle harmful bacteria, gas increase and changes in bowel movement are to be expected.
