Iodine is an essential chemical in your body that produces necessary hormones. And most Americans are not getting enough. A lack of iodine can cause hypothyroidism as well as a slew of other health conditions.

The most commonly used form of Iodine is in table salt.  Since 1924, iodine has been included in commercial table salt. But in the 1970s, we stoppped using as much table salt with health warnings warning of the toxins used to produce it.  Some of these toxins actually block iodine intake.

One of these chemicals, bromide can actually replace iodine in the thyroid. Studies have shown that in some cases when iodine is low bromide can induce hypothyroidism.

Flouride (which is found in toothpaste and tap water) and perchlorate can also block iodine.

In order to get more iodine in your body, here are some helpful tips:

1. Test your iodine levels through an iodine loading test.
2. Reduce your exposure to chemicals that block iodine.
3. Increase your iodine with the foods you eat. Foods that contain iodine include: quality fish and seafood, seaweed and kelp, cranberries, strawberries, and green leafy vegetables.