A study in Frontiers in Immunology looked at the role of iodine in human immune system cells.

Researchers found that treating white blood cells, which fight infection, with iodine resulted in significant changes in the function of the cells.

Specifically, they increased the release of substances that fight infection. The authors wrote, “Overall, our studies reveal the novel network between human immune cells and . . . highlight the importance of iodine in regulating the function of immune cells.”

It is well-known that iodine is needed by every cell in the body, and that it is concentrated in the glandular tissues such as the thyroid, ovaries, uterus, breasts, and prostate.

It is less well-known how iodine effects the immune system. In fact, our white blood cells cannot fight infection without adequate amounts of iodine.

Iodine deficiency is occurring at epidemic rates. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) showed that iodine levels have fallen nearly 60 percent in the U.S. over the last 40 years.

The consequence has been a rapid increase in cancer of the breasts, ovaries, uterus, prostate, and pancreas.

For more than 15 years, I’ve been recommending iodine to the majority of my patients. Most patients require about 12 mg to 25 mg per day.

More information about iodine can be found in my book, Iodine: Why You Need it, Why You Can’t Live Without It.