Selenium vs Iodide
DISCLAIMER: This article has been written for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Selenium and iodine are two essential minerals most commonly known for their significance in thyroid physiology. But their role in your body is not just limited to thyroid functioning. They also prevent you from different diseases of the lungs, heart, and immune system.
Although your daily requirements of iodine and selenium are met by the everyday food items you consume, you can opt for selenium and iodide supplements to avail their maximum benefits, but under the supervision of your physician.
Follow the article below to know more about selenium and iodide and their benefits for your body.
SELENIUM
Selenium is one of those essential minerals that must be obtained through diet. Although needed in small amounts, it plays a larger role in multiple processes occurring in your body.
Following are some of the well-known benefits provided by selenium:
ENSURES PROPER FUNCTIONING OF THYROID
In your body, the highest concentration of selenium is found within the thyroid tissue. Selenium doesn't only play a significant role in the production of thyroid hormones, but it also protects the thyroid tissue against oxidative stress.
Low serum levels of selenium have also been linked to Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and some studies have shown that selenium intake may help reduce the symptoms of this autoimmune condition.
ACTS AS AN ANTIOXIDANT
Different metabolic processes in your body constantly produce free radicals. These harmful chemical species can damage cells in your body and may lead to heart diseases, premature aging, autoimmune disorders, and cognitive impairment.
Selenium is a powerful antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals and protects your body against damage caused by oxidative stress.
PROTECTS HEART
Inflammation and oxidative stress are two of the risk factors for the development of cardiovascular problems, and selenium is capable of counteracting both of them.
Oxidative stress and inflammation may lead to atherosclerosis which in turn can cause myocardial infarction, stroke, and other fatal conditions.
Selenium can decrease the inflammatory marker C-reactive protein and increases the level of glutathione peroxidase to fight oxidative stress. Together these effects protect you from multiple cardiovascular diseases.
BOOSTS IMMUNITY
Proper functioning of the immune system is essential for the overall well-being of a person. However, factors like oxidative stress and inflammation can negatively affect the performance of the immune system.
Selenium consumption markedly reduces inflammation and can also fight against free radical damage. As a result, your immune system stays healthy and protects you from a wide range of diseases.
PRESERVES BRAIN FUNCTIONS
With increasing age, your brain functions decline leading to cognitive impairment and behavioral changes.
However, owing to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, selenium can protect your brain from different neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer’s disease.
SIDE EFFECTS OF SELENIUM
There is no doubt that selenium is extremely beneficial for your body, but too much consumption of selenium can be dangerous and may lead to the following side effects:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Tremors
- Soreness of muscles
- Hair loss
- Flushing of face
In severe acute selenium toxicity, people might experience more serious symptoms related to kidney, heart, and brain diseases.
IODIDE
Iodine also known as iodide, is one of the most important minerals in your body. Although it is mainly linked with the thyroid gland, it is also beneficial for brain functions.
Below is a brief description of different health benefits provided by iodine:
HEALTHY THYROID
The thyroid gland is one of the most important glands in your body that controls your metabolism. The thyroid gland achieves its functions by means of thyroid hormones, and for the production of those hormones, the thyroid needs iodine.
Without iodine, the synthesis of thyroid hormones declines and can lead to conditions like hypothyroidism and goiter.
IMPROVED COGNITIVE FUNCTIONS
Iodine is also vital for neurophysiology. At an early age, it helps in growth and development of the brain, and its deficiency can lead to intellectual disabilities.
FIBROCYSTIC BREAST DISEASE TREATMENT
Fibrocystic breast disease is a non-neoplastic condition most commonly affecting women of reproductive age. The main symptom of this disease is a lump in the breast that is most often painful. There can also be multiple painful lumps in a single breast.
Studies have demonstrated the benefits of iodine in fibrocystic breast disease; however, you must never self-medicate yourself and always seek medical supervision.
IODINE AND PREGNANCY
Pregnant women need more iodine as fetal brain development relies on the iodine intake by the mother. Low levels of iodine during pregnancy can lead to intellectual delays in the newborn.
When the baby is delivered then, also women need an extra amount of iodine so that an adequate quantity of it can be passed into breastmilk. Otherwise, the breastfed infant would not get a sufficient amount of iodine for this crucial brain development stage.
SIDE EFFECTS OF IODIDE
The significance of iodine in your body cannot be challenged; however, you must remember that iodine is not your usual day-to-day supplement. It requires medical supervision; otherwise, you might suffer unpleasant consequences.
Some of the common side effects of excess iodine intake include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach discomfort
- Fever
- Burning sensation in the throat
Children are older adults are more likely to develop iodine toxicity which in severe cases may even lead to coma.
WRAPPING UP
Selenium and iodine are two minerals required in smaller quantities but play a much larger role in different aspects of your health.
Both selenium and iodine are required for the proper functioning of your thyroid gland. Apart from that, selenium boosts immunity and protects your heart and brain.
Iodine can help in the treatment of fibrocystic breast disease and is also essential for pregnant and lactating women to ensure the proper growth and development of the fetal brain.
It is recommended that you speak with your healthcare provider before starting selenium or iodide supplements, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications for any underlying health conditions.
Here you can check Vorst’s supplement Selenium 90 Capsules 200mcg and Potassium Iodide 800mcg 120 Vegan Capsules.
RESOURCES
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5307254/