Radiation protection.

Photo by Dee Stecco

In the wake of the devastating earthquake, which aside from killing thousands, has also affected a radiation plant, much concern has been raised about the security of our bodies and radiation levels.

The past two weeks alone, we've taken requests and special orders for potassium iodide because we were sold out immediately at our store. People are scared and for good reason. The thyroid is the main organ that is affected by radiation. Potassium iodide provides the necessary iodine levels to protect the thyroid from additional iodine in the form of radiation.

What purpose does the thyroid gland have? It produces thyroid hormones which controls how quickly the body uses energy, makes proteins, and controls how sensitive the body should be to other hormones. This is why individuals with hypothyroidism (mostly found in women) have issues ranging from weight gain and water retention, muscle cramps, fatigue, and depression, to state a few.

The best way I can describe why people take potassium iodide is to fill the thyroid like a balloon with the iodine so that when iodine from radiation tries to penetrate, it has no room. Those individuals with iodine deficiency should be concerned and try to get those levels at a normal rate.

The most common form of iodine is found in kelp (other sources of iodine are Himalayan salt, dulse, asparagus, garlic, seafood and spinach) . I use a supplement of iodine from kelp once a week at most because I consume foods with iodine. The liquid I use only supplies with 150mcg per serving. For those in the line of fire with excessive radiation, that amount will not cut it. There is a great product that contains 150mg (150,000mcg) of potassium iodide in each serving. Appropriately, it's called Nuke Protect.

For those with an under-active thyroid (hypothyroidism) the recommended dosage is 2,000-5,000mg of iodide a day* (Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 4th Edition, Phyllis A. Balch, CN). If this is a concern for you and your family, it's always best to do as much research as possible before starting any medication or supplement.


*Always consult your healthcare practitioner prior to beginning any new treatment