GLOSSARY

Iodine is essential within thyroid hormones; adequacy differs from trying to stimulate metabolism without limit through supplementation.

Iodine forms part of thyroid hormones; iodide is a common ionic form in absorption and food sources. Iodized salt, some seafood, dairy and eggs contribute variable amounts depending on region and production. Sea or pink salt is not necessarily iodized, so read labels. Adequate iodine does not mean indiscriminately increasing salt; dietary planning can coordinate suitable iodized-salt use with overall sodium goals.

Much absorbed iodine is excreted in urine, making urinary concentration useful for population assessment. A single random sample depends strongly on recent intake and urine dilution and does not definitively establish one person's long-term adequacy. Thyroid tests answer related but different questions. For a fatigued athlete, assigning every symptom to iodine or relying on a skin home test does not provide a sound supplement indication.

Both low and excessive iodine can disrupt thyroid function, with responses influenced by underlying disease. Seaweed content is highly variable, and a natural food can supply too much. Iodine supplements are not general metabolism boosters or fat-loss aids for athletes. Persistent symptoms call for thyroid and cause assessment; unassessed food exclusions or concentrated drops can worsen rather than resolve the situation.