I just finally read topics regarding the thyroid glands.
I guess lack of iodine in women can lead to a decrease in metabolism which can lead to a increase in weight.
And I read fluoride is a culprit in removing iodine in your system or in what you eat.
So the fluoride in the drinking water can play a role in your metabolism.
I use tap water with my crystal light. Now I wonder if I should take an iodine supplement or find it and take more in foods that contain it. I read you need the iodide with the iodine too.


Any comments on this?

Hmmm, I hadn't heard that before, but I'm hypothyroid, and I'm all about finding anything that will help my metabolism. Do you have any links to where you read about this?

http://www.endocrineweb.com/thyfunction.html

http://www.1-thyroid.com/

are some sites I looked at

Lack of iodine can lower your metabolism. However, too much iodine can also reek havoc. If you take any supplements, be sure not to take too much, no more than 150 mcg per day. The most common supplement is kelp (seaweed). Remember that table salt has iodine in it, and so does salt water seafood.

If you are taking thyroid replacement hormones, be careful how much iodine supplement you take, and when. The thyroid hormones (natural or synthetic) need iodine to work properly, but too much will backfire.

I always take my thyroid pills first thing in the morning, on an empty stomach with a large glass of water. I take a kelp tablet twice a week in the evening, and eat seafood at least once a week. I don't know if the kelp is helping or not, but my endocrinologist did not tell me not to take it. He did tell me to limit soy products and don't take a calcium supplement at the same time I took my thyroid pills because apparently those interfere with absorption or something.

Iodine is required for the production of two hormones that are produced by your thyroid, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Those hormones are basically the chemicals that start the reaction to release energy from your stored fat. No chemical reaction, no energy release, your body reduces it's energy usage to make up the difference (i.e. lower body temperature, feeling sluggish, etc.), and ultimately your metabolism is lower for it. However, do not overload on the iodine as pointed out by ArlingtonLisa. It can play havoc with your body in the same ways that a deficiency would. Best bet is to get it from natural sources and you won't overload, but will have more than enough. Kelp salad anyone?

Is there a blood test to determine if your iodine levels are adequate?

I'm sure there is a blood test, but there's a simpler test you can do at home. Go to the drug store and buy some tincture of iodine. Put a swatch about 2" in diameter on your belly or somewhere that won't rub off due to clothing contact. It will leave a reddish orange "stain". Check it every 6 hours or so. If it fades quickly, you probably are low on iodine (your body has absorbed it from your skin). If it doesn't fade very much in 36 hours, then your iodine levels are probably fine.

I read about that on one of the thyroid websites, but I can't remember which one.

^^^Here is a link about that.

I started taking some Iodine in a pill called IodinePlus (Natural Living Inc.). Just once in the morning.
I noticed a number of improvements in my health.
I noticed my hair is much softer and doesn't fall out as easy. I have my rosy red cheeks back and my skin isnt as dry. Im hoping it has helped my metabolism too. But the other things really make up for it!
It contains vitamins A, B, Niacin and Iodide.