Iodine and Breast Health: What You Need to Know

Iodine and Breast Health: What You Need to Know

by | Oct 29, 2024 | Endocrine/Hormone Health, Naturopathic Medicine, Women's Health

Maintaining optimal breast health is a priority for many women, and iodine plays a crucial role in achieving this. While iodine is commonly associated with thyroid function, it’s also essential for breast health. This blog will explore the relationship between iodine and breast health, the risks of iodine deficiency, and actionable steps for improving your iodine intake.

The Importance of Iodine for Breast Health

Iodine is an essential nutrient that is often overlooked in discussions about breast health. Not only does it support the thyroid, but it is also vital for maintaining healthy breast tissue. Adequate iodine levels may help prevent conditions like fibrocystic breast changes and could potentially lower the risk of breast cancer.11, 13

Iodine’s Role in Cellular Function

Breast tissue requires significant amounts of iodine for normal cellular function. Iodine helps regulate estrogen metabolism, supporting healthy hormone balance. When iodine levels are sufficient, the body directs estrogen down protective pathways. In contrast, low iodine leads to imbalances that may increase the risk of breast issues.11,13

In particular, molecular iodine (I2) has been shown to neutralize free radicals, induce the production of antioxidant enzymes, and reduce inflammation. In cancerous cells, iodine activates apoptotic pathways (programmed cell death) and inhibits markers related to chemoresistance and cancer cell survival.1 A small pilot study in women with early and advanced breast cancer found that molecular iodine, when combined with chemotherapy, not only enhanced treatment response but also reduced side effects and prevented chemoresistance in all patients. After five years, patients who received iodine before and after surgery had a significantly higher disease-free survival rate compared to those who only received it after surgery.10

How Iodine Supports Estrogen Balance and Breast Health

Iodine plays a key role in metabolizing estrogen, guiding it through pathways that can either protect against or may raise the risk of cancer.5,12 It is especially important to note that iodine works best in synergy with selenium, a powerful antioxidant. Selenium protects iodine-rich tissues, such as the breasts and thyroid, by neutralizing free radicals.8

Studies suggest that breast cancer-protective effects of iodine are most prominent in people with higher selenium levels. Therefore, maintaining adequate levels of both iodine and selenium is critical for optimal breast health.8

The richest foods sources of selenium include Brazil nuts, organ meats, seafood, and muscle meats (from farmed animals who are supplemented with selenium in their feed).7

Fibrocystic Breast Changes and Iodine

Many women experience fibrocystic breast changes, characterized by lumpy, tender, and often painful breasts, due to hormonal fluctuations. Research indicates that iodine deficiency can exacerbate these symptoms. Increasing iodine intake has been shown to improve breast tissue health and reduce discomfort associated with fibrocystic changes.9

Why Are So Many People Still Deficient in Iodine?

Despite iodine being added to table salt, iodine deficiency remains common. Here are some reasons why:

  • Dietary Deficiencies: In my practice, I find iodine deficiencies in patients who do not consume little if any dairy, seafood and/ or sea vegetables and who are not supplementing with iodine. Recent research has found that those with vegan, vegetarian and paleolithic diets tend towards iodine deficiency. Recently, I have also found functional deficiency of iodine due to vitamin A deficiency (read more on the importance and connection between vitamin A and iodine below).4
  • Halides: Found in common products like baked goods, tap water, flame retardants, halides (chlorine, fluoride, and bromine) compete with iodine in the body, blocking its absorption.9
  • Soil Depletion: Modern farming practices have depleted iodine levels in the soil, meaning our food contains less iodine than it did decades ago.9
  • Less Effective Forms: The form of iodine found in table salt (iodide) is not as easily used by breast tissue, making it less beneficial for overall breast health.1,9

The Importance of Testing for Iodine Deficiency

Before supplementing with iodine, it's crucial to test your levels. A 24-hour urine iodine test is considered the most accurate method.6 Testing ensures you're taking the right dose of iodine and prevents over-supplementation, which could aggravate conditions like Hashimoto's thyroiditis.

Iodine Supplementation Guidelines

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends the following iodine daily intake:

  • Adults and adolescents: 150 mcg/day
  • Pregnant and lactating women: 250 mcg/day
  • Children aged 6–12 years: 120 mcg/day
  • Infants up to 6 years: 90 mcg/day

It's important to work with a healthcare provider to determine an appropriate supplementation plan based on your test results.

The Connection Between Vitamin A, Iodine, and Breast Health

The Sodium Iodide Symporter (NIS) and Pendrin (PDS) are transport proteins that help move iodine into sensitive tissues, such as thyroid, breast and prostate. NIS levels are higher in about 80% of breast cancers, particularly HER2+, whereas pendrin has been found to be low in breast cancer tissues.2,3 Researchers are exploring how NIS can be used in breast cancer imaging and treatment.2

Vitamin A, specifically in the form of all-trans retinoic acid, helps boost NIS activity, improving how well breast tissue utilizes iodine.6 This suggests that keeping both iodine and vitamin A levels optimal may provide added protection against breast issues like fibrocystic changes.

What You Can Do

  1. Test Your Iodine Levels: Always test before supplementing with iodine. Work with a healthcare provider to determine the best type of test for you —24-hour urinary iodine testing is generally preferred.6
  2. Test Your Selenium Levels: Since selenium is crucial for iodine metabolism and breast tissue protection, consider testing your selenium levels too.7
  3. Consult a Professional: If you're considering iodine supplementation for breast health, consult your healthcare provider or naturopathic doctor for personalized advice based on your test results.
  4. Read Labels: Many multivitamins contain adequate iodine, but prenatal vitamins often fall short. Be mindful of the iodine content in your supplements to ensure you’re getting enough.

Final Thoughts

Iodine is a vital nutrient for both thyroid and breast health. By testing your levels, ensuring adequate selenium intake, and eating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, you can take proactive steps to support breast health and hormone balance. Always consult with your healthcare professional to determine the best approach for your unique needs.

Take charge of your breast health today by understanding your body’s iodine needs and working with a trusted healthcare provider to achieve optimal wellness.

 

Dr. Sarah Giardenelli is a naturopathic doctor, acupuncturist, herbalist, and owner of the Collective Health Center in Leesburg, Virginia. With a focus on holistic health and wellness, Dr. Giardenelli is dedicated to helping patients achieve their health goals through personalized care and evidence-informed practices.

References

  1. Aceves C, Mendieta I, Anguiano B, Delgado-González E. Molecular Iodine Has Extrathyroidal Effects as an Antioxidant, Differentiator, and Immunomodulator. Int J Mol Sci. 2021 Jan 27;22(3):1228. doi: 10.3390/ijms22031228. PMID: 33513754; PMCID: PMC7865438. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7865438/
  2. Arczewska KD, Godlewska M, Krasuska W, Łyczkowska A, Kiedrowski M, Czarnocka B. Expression of pendrin and NIS iodide transporters in human breast tumor and peri-tumoral tissue. Arch Med Sci. 2019 Nov 25;18(4):1041-1050. doi: 10.5114/aoms.2019.89980. PMID: 35832691; PMCID: PMC9266960. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9266960/
  3. Elliyanti A, Rusnita D, Afriani N, Susanto YDB, Susilo VY, Setiyowati S, Harahap WA. Analysis Natrium Iodide Symporter Expression in Breast Cancer Subtypes for Radioiodine Therapy Response. Nucl Med Mol Imaging. 2020 Feb;54(1):35-42. doi: 10.1007/s13139-019-00632-8. Epub 2020 Jan 3. PMID: 32206129; PMCID: PMC7062960. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7062960/
  4. Greger, M. (2023, March 31). Are vegans at risk for iodine deficiency? org. https://nutritionfacts.org/video/are-vegans-at-risk-for-iodine-deficiency/
  5. He S, Wang B, Lu X, Miao S, Yang F, Zava T, Ding Q, Zhang S, Liu J, Zava D, Shi YE. Iodine stimulates estrogen receptor singling and its systemic level is increased in surgical patients due to topical absorption. 2017 Sep 4;9(1):375-384. doi: 10.18632/oncotarget.20633. PMID: 29416620; PMCID: PMC5787473. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5787473/
  6. Linus Pauling Institute. (2023). Oregon State University. https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/minerals/iodine#:~:text=Vitamin%20A%20deficiency%20in%20animal,thyroid%20gland%20and%20impairing%20the
  7. Linus Pauling Institute. (2023). Oregon State University. https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/minerals/selenium#selenoproteins
  8. Manjer J, Sandsveden M, Borgquist S. Serum Iodine and Breast Cancer Risk: A Prospective Nested Case-Control Study Stratified for Selenium Levels. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2020 Jul;29(7):1335-1340. doi: 10.1158/1055-9965.EPI-20-0122. Epub 2020 May 26. PMID: 32457181. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32457181/
  9. Meletis CD. Iodine: Health Implications of Deficiency. Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary & Alternative Medicine. 2011;16(3):190-194. doi:10.1177/2156587211414424. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/2156587211414424
  10. Moreno-Vega A, Vega-Riveroll L, Ayala T, Peralta G, Torres-Martel JM, Rojas J, Mondragón P, Domínguez A, De Obaldía R, Avecilla-Guerrero C, Anguiano B, Delgado-González E, Zambrano-Estrada X, Cuenca-Micó O, De La Puente Flores O, Varela-Echavarría A, Aceves C. Adjuvant Effect of Molecular Iodine in Conventional Chemotherapy for Breast Cancer. Randomized Pilot Study. 2019 Jul 17;11(7):1623. doi: 10.3390/nu11071623. PMID: 31319484; PMCID: PMC6682905. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6682905/
  11. Rappaport J. Changes in Dietary Iodine Explains Increasing Incidence of Breast Cancer with Distant Involvement in Young Women. J Cancer. 2017 Jan 13;8(2):174-177. doi: 10.7150/jca.17835. PMID: 28243321; PMCID: PMC5327366. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5327366/
  12. Stoddard FR 2nd, Brooks AD, Eskin BA, Johannes GJ. Iodine alters gene expression in the MCF7 breast cancer cell line: evidence for an anti-estrogen effect of iodine. Int J Med Sci. 2008 Jul 8;5(4):189-96. doi: 10.7150/ijms.5.189. PMID: 18645607; PMCID: PMC2452979. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2452979/
  13. Winder M, Kosztyła Z, Boral A, Kocełak P, Chudek J. The Impact of Iodine Concentration Disorders on Health and Cancer. 2022 May 26;14(11):2209. doi: 10.3390/nu14112209. PMID: 35684009; PMCID: PMC9182735. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9182735/
  14. ZRT Laboratory. (2021, July 7). Curious about iodine? Part 2: The history, uses, and forms of iodine. ZRT Laboratory. https://www.zrtlab.com/blog/archive/curious-about-iodine-2/#B9

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Balancing Female Hormones Naturally

Balancing Female Hormones Naturally

by | May 7, 2021 | Endocrine/Hormone Health, Naturopathic Medicine, Women's Health

If you weren't able to catch my talk from the Be Well Women's Summit, Balancing Female Hormones Naturally, you can listen to this and the entire summit HERE at no cost. My 15 minute talk starts at the 2 hour 40 minute mark. Learn why understanding how ones' female hormones are metabolizing is a key step in developing a personalized approach to rebalancing.

Dr. Sarah's focus with patients is truly on personalized health and her goal one patient at a time, is community health. Women's health = community health. She is a naturopathic doctor & acupuncturist at Collective Health Center in Leesburg Virginia. Learn more by filling out the form below.

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Alcohol, Immune Health and More: A Holiday PSA

Alcohol, Immune Health and More: A Holiday PSA

by | Nov 30, 2020 | Brain Health, Cardiovascular Health, Endocrine/Hormone Health, Immune Health, Mindfulness, Stress Management, Women's Health

The holiday season is a particularly stressful time for many people – and this year has been extra, as the kids say. One theme I often see in my patients is a tendency to use alcohol to relax. Most do not realize they are consuming a moderate or heavy amount of alcohol and many are not aware of the various health effects associated with each. Especially during this season and with alcohol sales soaring in Virginia, I feel compelled to provide a public service announcement. On September 3rd, the Washington Post wrote: “The Virginia Alcohol Beverage Control Authority brought in $1.2 billion in revenue during the 2020 fiscal year in a nearly $120 million increase from the previous year, even as the coronavirus pandemic left restaurants and bars shuttered for months.” As a health care provider, while not shocking, this is concerning, especially given the known, deleterious health effects of alcohol on the immune system.

When we talk about alcohol and its effect on the body positive or negative, we really need to consider the amount we are talking about. A standard alcohol drink is 14 grams of alcohol which equals 12 ounces of beer (~5% alcohol), 8.5 ounces of malt liquor (~9% alcohol), 5 ounces of wine (~12% alcohol), 3.5 ounces of fortified wine (ie sherry or port), or 1.5 ounces of liquor (distilled spirits, 40% alcohol). Moderate alcohol consumption for women is, as considered by the USDA, to be no more than one standard alcoholic drink per day and for men no more than two standard alcoholic drinks/day. Heavy alcohol consumption for women is considered, by the USDA more than 7 standard alcoholic drinks per week or more than 3 standard alcoholic drinks in one day and for men more than 14 standard alcoholic drinks per week or more than 4 standard alcoholic drinks in a day.

 

Light to moderate alcohol consumption has some likely effect in cardiovascular disease, where it has been shown to reduce risk of plaque build-up and heart attack and deaths from heart disease. One to two alcoholic drinks/day increases protective HDL and Apo A1 cholesterol, decreases LDL, triglycerides and ApoB (an inflammatory cholesterol fraction), decreases factors that influence blood clotting, may decrease systolic blood pressure, has been shown to reduces inflammatory marker blood biomarker, hsCRP. However, light to moderate consumption does not seem to have any effect in men with already established coronary heart disease. This is a major caveat to be aware of as many people in the US already have evidence of established heart disease and with the obesity epidemic we are seeing heart disease in children. About half of all Americans are at risk for heart disease and heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. 

Although red wine has been touted as ‘better’ than other forms of alcohol there is no conclusive evidence from clinical studies. Often people point to the polyphenol resveratrol that is in red wine as a reason to drink. However, you would have to consume a TON of red wine to get any benefit from the resveratrol in it. Most of the resveratrol in supplements is not from grapes, but from Japanese knotweed - an herb that grows like a weed in the US. Also, most of the research on the single ingredient resveratrol is insufficient. However, Japanese knotweed with all of its many phytochemicals is a wonderful herb that has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries for its properties that have immune supportive effects and anti-inflammatory effects. 

Additionally, fruits and veggies generally have more polyphenols than wine. Most people would do better to focus on getting 5-10 servings of veggies and a few fruits per day and herbals teas and avoid drinking alcohol. One of my absolute favorite herbals teas of late is Holy Basil or Tulsi – as it has both a calming and gentle energy boosting or stress managing effects as an adaptogen herb.

I have a lot of patients with estrogen dominance, which is having too much estrogen in ratio to progesterone which contributes to many common PMS and other female health concerns. Alcohol only exacerbates these symptoms. Additionally, I have many patients at increased risk for breast cancer, sleep disturbances and symptomatic menopause. I generally advise limiting alcohol in these populations. 

While many people use alcohol to help relax before bed, the medical evidence shows alcohol to be disruptive to the sleep cycle. Magnesium chelates, Epson salt baths, meditation area some examples of more effective and less harmful choices to help get relaxed before bed or to get relaxed in general. Stress cannot be drunk away, as a culture the research shows that we all may benefit even when a small group of individuals takes some time daily to meditate. No time for meditation? Consider tapping or the Emotional Freedom Technique, which is a simple and often effective method for helping to relieve mild stress and worry. 

Known risks of over consumption or dependence include: central nervous system effects (kills your brain cells, as alcohol is a cellular toxin), cirrhosis (liver inflammation and damage), malnutrition, and mouth/esophageal/ laryngeal/liver cancer. More than two drinks per day can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and overall mortality. Light to moderate consumption can increase risk of hemorrhagic stroke. In women, one or more alcoholic drinks per day might increase risk of breast cancer by 2 to 15% and increase mortality from breast cancer as much as 30% (especially if daily intake of folate is 300 mcg or less). Alcohol consumption can also increase asthma and migraines in those sensitive to sulfites/ yeast. 

I have many patients with acid reflux who are drinking 1-2 drinks every night, possibly along with caffeine, and often soda. While it is no surprise to me, they are often pleasantly surprised when their acid reflux resolves after eliminating these known triggers. 

Because alcohol increases your liver’s detoxification pathway alcohol consumption, it can disrupt the metabolism of many medications. Birth control is a good example of this, it is not as effective when drinking alcohol, so using a second method of birth control during these times is particularly important if trying to prevent pregnancy. There are many other medications affected by alcohol consumption and if you take medications you should be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist to see if any can be consumed with alcohol. 

If you have pre-diabetes or diabetes, you might consider reducing your alcohol consumption. While light drinking can contribute to low blood glucose, heavy drinking can cause insulin resistance, which leads to the development of type II diabetes. Heavy drinking can cause inflammation of the pancreas and destroy the pancreas’ ability to make insulin, leading to diabetes. Alcohol is nutrient light and high caloric. “One pint of lager can be equivalent to a slice of pizza.” Over-consumption can contribute to weight gain and obesity, an independent risk factor for many diseases.

A final note during this season is that alcohol consumption weakens the body’s immune system making it more susceptible to disease and infection. Drinking more than 3-4 drinks on a single occasion will suppress the immune system even up to 24 hours later. Chronic drinkers have higher rates of diseases like pneumonia and tuberculosis.

For further reading on this topic, Harvard’s Nutrition Source has a thorough summary of the research on alcohol and its effect on the body: http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/alcohol-full-story/

Dr. Sarah is passionate about educating patients and getting to the root cause of their chronic, troubling symptoms; often alcohol is often a culprit that has not been thoughtfully considered. Dr. Sarah is honored to be a collaborative partner in her patient’s health at her practice Collective Health Center, in downtown Leesburg, Virginia. As the saying goes, ‘it takes a village’ – particularly when sensitive issues, such as dependence are involved, the primary care provider, the behavioral health specialist, the naturopathic doctor and others may need to work together to help get patients back on the road to wellness.

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