Iodine is an essential nutrient, meaning that the human body requires it for many of the body's functions but cannot synthesize it on its own. Without enough iodine, the thyroid gland cannot produce the thyroid hormones that regulate growth, metabolism and other important processes in the body. When that happens, energy levels plummet, hormones become imbalanced, and physical and emotional states are affected. Here we’ll take a closer look at everything you should know about iodine and its special relationship with the thyroid. (more…)