Trace element for thyroid, energy and hormone balance
Iodine is a vital trace element that your body cannot produce itself. It is absorbed through food and plays a central role in the production of the thyroid hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) .
These hormones regulate energy expenditure, metabolism, mental alertness and hormonal balance, especially in men also in connection with testosterone, libido, mood and performance .
Iodine deficiency often goes unnoticed for a long time, but it negatively affects thyroid function, energy levels, concentration, and weight control . In Germany, especially among men who eat a low-salt or vegetarian diet, iodine deficiency is one of the most common and underestimated micronutrient deficiencies.
Why is iodine important for men?
Adult men need approximately 200 micrograms of iodine daily - in special phases of life, such as when trying to conceive, during chronic stress or when the need may even increase slightly.
Iodine is essential for:
- the production of thyroid hormones (T3, T4)
- the regulation of basal metabolic rate (calorie consumption at rest)
- Energy production in cells (mitochondrial function)
- a stable body temperature
- cognitive performance and mood
- fertility , especially via thyroid function
Symptoms of iodine deficiency
Iodine deficiency often develops gradually. Many men don't attribute symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, or depressive moods to their thyroid, even though that could be the cause.
Typical signs:
- Chronic fatigue, lack of motivation
- Weight gain despite unchanged diet
- Slowed heartbeat or sensitivity to cold
- Concentration problems, "brain fog"
- Dry skin, brittle nails
- Loss of libido or low testosterone levels
- Depressive moods or emotional flatness
- Beginning thyroid enlargement (goiter)
In the long term, an untreated iodine deficiency can lead to hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) , with effects on the entire hormonal balance.
Iodine and the thyroid gland: What you should know
The thyroid gland stores iodine and uses it to synthesize T4 and T3. Free triiodothyronine (fT3) is particularly crucial, as it is the biologically active form of thyroid hormone. If there is insufficient iodine, the body cannot produce enough hormones, which slows down metabolism, libido, and mental performance.
Important: Consistently high or uncontrolled iodine intake can also be problematic for certain thyroid disorders (e.g., Hashimoto's thyroiditis). Therefore, it is important to have laboratory values such as TSH, fT3, fT4, and, if necessary, antibodies checked under medical supervision before taking iodine supplements independently.
How can you meet your iodine needs?
Iodine is found primarily in animal and seafood foods . Foods particularly rich in iodine include:
- Sea fish (e.g. cod, haddock, saithe)
- seafood
- eggs
- Milk and dairy products (depending on animal feed)
- Iodized table salt
Plant-based sources of iodine are relatively rare – some algae (e.g., nori, wakame) contain iodine, but in very inconsistent amounts. Therefore, targeted supplementation with a standardized dosage is often advisable for vegetarian or vegan diets.
Diagnostics: How do I recognize an iodine deficiency?
Iodine deficiency can be indirectly detected via thyroid hormone levels. The following values are informative:
- TSH (Thyroid-stimulating hormone)
- free T3 (fT3) and free T4 (fT4)
- If necessary, thyroid antibodies (TPO-Ab, TG-Ab) in case of suspected autoimmune disease.
- Iodine concentration in urine (less frequently used, often unreliable)
In cases of recurring symptoms or abnormal hormone levels, a hormone test for men is advisable, especially if other symptoms such as fatigue, mood swings or loss of libido are present.
Conclusion
Iodine is a small nutrient with a big impact, especially for men who want to maintain their energy, thyroid function, and hormonal balance. An imbalanced iodine level can cause symptoms that are often not recognized as being due to a deficiency.
Those who consciously pay attention to a diet rich in iodine and, if in doubt, have their thyroid levels checked, can take early countermeasures and secure their vitality in the long term .
