In fact, in conventional medicine, there is rarely a search for an
underlying causative factor. If you don’t search for an underlying causative factor, then how can you formulate an effective
treatment plan? Radioactive iodine is the preferred method in conventional medicine for treating autoimmune thyroid disorders. 16
 In one of 
the
most respected books on thyroid problems, radioactive iodine is reported as “effective, safe, and relatively inexpensive”
17
. Let’s
look at all three of these claims. IS RADIOACTIVE IODINE EFFECTIVE? If the goal of treating an autoimmune thyroid disorder is to destroy the thyroid gland, then yes, radioactive iodine is effective. It is well known that iodine is taken up by the thyroid gland. By using a radioactive form of iodine (I
131
), the theory is that
wherever the radioactive form of iodine binds, the radioactivity will destroy the surrounding cells. In the case of autoimmune
thyroid disorders, the binding of the radioactive iodine to the thyroid gland will result in the destruction of thyroid tissue by the
radioactive isotope. If the cause of autoimmune thyroid disorders is too much thyroid tissue that needs to be destroyed, then the use of radioactive
iodine could be considered effective. However, excess thyroid tissue is not the cause of autoimmune thyroid disorders; it is a
consequence of the illness. Radioactive iodine has never been considered a treatment which addresses the underlying cause of the illness. Radioactive
iodine is solely a palliative treatment for the hyperthyroid symptoms of autoimmune thyroid problems. I believe there are more
effective ways to treat autoimmune thyroid illnesses using natural items, which will be covered below. IS RADIOACTIVE IODINE SAFE? Not only will radioactive iodine bind to the thyroid gland destroying thyroid cells, it will also bind to other sites in the body
besides the thyroid gland. It was established in 
Chapter 1
 that iodine is present in all of the cells of the body. Radioactive iodine
will be concentrated where iodine accumulates in the body, including the breasts in women. With breast cancer at epidemic rates–
affecting one in seven women–I don’t believe a therapy should be used that may potentially increase this rate. Researchers have reported a 400% increased incidence of death from thyroid cancer due to radioactive iodine. 18
Furthermore, a nine year study of 2,793 patients who received radioactive iodine found:
19
1
. 56% increase in mortality
2
. 40% increased risk of stroke
3
. 29% increased risk in mortality from cancer of any sort
To be fair, there are other articles pointing out no increased risk of illness after radioactive iodine therapy. However, common
sense would dictate extreme caution with 
using radioactive iodine. I feel radioactive iodine therapy should be the last choice in
any thyroid treatment program. RADIOACTIVE IODINE: IS IT INEXPENSIVE? The cost of radioactive iodine is approximately $3,000-$5,000. Radioactive iodine is an expensive procedure that does not
address the underlying cause of the illness. There are much better alternatives than radioactive iodine. SEARCHING FOR AN UNDERLYING CAUSE OF AUTOIMMUNE THYROID PROBLEMS
In order to formulate an effective, safe, and inexpensive treatment for autoimmune thyroid problems, one must first search for
an underlying cause of the illness. As I discussed in my book, 
Overcoming Thyroid Disorders, 3
rd
 Edition
, the underlying
cause of autoimmune thyroid disorders can be varied. This can include infections, toxicities, food allergies (e.g., glutenintolerance), and nutritional imbalances. I believe that iodine deficiency is a causative risk factor in developing an autoimmune
thyroid problem. Tracy, 40-years-old, was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s disease ten years ago after the birth of her son. Her TSH
elevated to 150mIU/l (normal 0.2-4.7mIU/l) and she felt miserable. “I could not think clearly. I felt like my brain was in
a fog. I would go to the store and not know why I was there. I was also extremely fatigued”, she said. She had symptoms
of hyperthyroid and 
hypothyroid problems. “Sometimes my heart would start racing for no apparent reason. I was
irritable and moody. I couldn’t work out because I felt so poorly,” she claimed. Tracy was placed on Synthroid
®
, but felt
no better. Although her laboratory tests improved and her TSH became normal, none of her symptoms improved. When I
began treating Tracy, I found, through blood testing, that she was suffering from gluten sensitivity. I placed her on a
gluten-free diet that alleviated many of her symptoms. She was also given nutritional supplements to correct many
vitamin and mineral imbalances. Tracy’s thyroid medication was changed to a more natural thyroid prescription–Nature-
Throid
®
 and she improved. “I felt much better. I could think more clearly. Most importantly, my energy came back,” she
said. When I investigated her iodine status, Tracy was found to be markedly iodine deficient. With the use of a
combination of iodine/iodide, she further improved. Tracy claimed, “When I started taking iodine, my energy improved. I
was sleeping better and dreaming better. I started to lift weights and build muscle which I haven’t been able to do in a
long time. I cannot believe the positive changes that I have seen with the iodine.” Tracy’s iodine levels have improved
with using a combination of iodine/iodide and she continues to supplement today. Marlene, a 45-year-old advertising executive, was diagnosed with Graves’ disease one year ago. “I woke up one
morning and my heart was beating very fast and I felt like I was on too much caffeine,” she said. Marlene went to her
physician who diagnosed her with Graves’ disease. “I asked him what caused it, and he couldn’t answer me. When he
told me he wanted to treat me with radioactive iodine, I questioned him. I wasn’t satisfied with his answers and I began
to look at the alternatives,” she said. Marlene was diagnosed with iodine deficiency (24% excretion on an iodine loading
test—normal levels >90%). She was also found to have multiple nutritional deficiencies and elevated mercury levels. I
treated Marlene with 50 mg of iodine (Iodoral
®
) per day as well as vitamins and minerals. In addition, a mercury
detoxification plan was implemented. Furthermore, Marlene improved her diet, eliminating refined carbohydrates and
drinking more water. After four weeks on this therapy, she noticed a dramatic improvement in her symptoms. “I was
thrilled. All of the hyperthyroid symptoms resolved. I began to feel much better and even my energy level went up. People
began asking me what I was doing, since they thought I looked so much better,” she said. Marlene’s case is not unique. Graves’ disease can be treated effectively with a comprehensive holistic program. My initial study on the iodine status of 24 patients (see 
Chapter 2
) showed that 92% of those with Hashimoto’s and Graves’
disease also had iodine deficiency. Nearly every one of these patients had dramatic improvements in their symptoms 
with the use
of a combination of iodine/iodide to replace the body’s deficit. Rarely do I see a negative side effect from the use of iodine and
side effects are easily rectified with adjusting the dosage. Keep in mind I am using iodine as part of a holistic treatment regimen
that includes unrefined salt. As mentioned previously, inorganic, non-radioactive iodine (such as Lugol’s or tableted Lugol’s) has been used to treat
autoimmune thyroid problems for over 100 years. There are numerous reports in the literature citing the beneficial effects of
iodine. In fact, iodine has been shown to reduce the hyperplasia and hypervascularity characteristic of Graves’ disease. 20
 In cases
of hyperthyroidism, milligram doses of iodine/iodide were used effectively prior to thyroid surgery to decrease thyroid hormone
blood levels and prevent thyroid storm–a complication of thyroid surgery. There is a concern that the use of iodine in an autoimmune thyroid patient can exacerbate the symptoms of thyroid toxicosis. Sometimes this claim is made when the TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) test elevates shortly after starting iodine therapy. As
previously mentioned, after beginning iodine therapy in an iodine-deficient patient, it is expected that the TSH level will elevate. How can I make that statement? Understanding the biochemistry and physiology of the thyroid gland allows me to make that
statement. The laboratory reference range for TSH is 
from 0.4-4.5mIU/L. An elevated TSH–in the range of 5-20mIU/L–with
normal thyroid hormone, T4 and T3, along with a normal physical exam and history does not indicate a hypothyroid condition. Rather, it is a normal and expected response from the body to iodine supplementation. In the majority of patients, the TSH level
may remain elevated for three to six months, before lowering into the reference range. The lowering of TSH indicates the body’s
iodine stores are increasing. More information about this mechanism can be found in the next chapter. FINAL THOUGHTS
I believe all individuals with a thyroid problem should have their iodine levels checked. If iodine levels are suboptimal, iodine
replacement with the correct form of iodine should be instituted. However, it is important to make sure that the patient does not
have an autonomous functioning thyroid nodule. Luckily, this condition is rare. My experience has clearly shown that, for the vast majority of patients, the appropriate use of iodine in treating thyroid
disorders, from hypothyroidism to Graves’ and Hashimoto’s disease, is not only safe, but effective and inexpensive. This is a
holistic way to search for and treat an underlying cause of thyroid problems with a safe and natural agent. But, most importantly,people improve their condition without experiencing any serious adverse effects. My clinical experience has shown that when iodine is added to a hypothyroid patient’s regimen, it may become necessary to
adjust their thyroid dosage. Approximately one-third of patients being treated for hypothyroidism will need to lower their dose of
thyroid hormone when an iodine-deficient disorder is corrected. The other two-thirds of the people taking thyroid hormone can
usually maintain their dosage. Also, patients with Graves’ and Hashimoto’s disease may have to adjust their thyroid medications. Iodine replacement is not the only therapy for thyroid illness. Nutritional supplementation, detoxification, drinking adequate
amounts of water and dietary changes can also improve these conditions. For more information on a comprehensive holistic plan
to treat thyroid disorders, I refer the reader to my book, 
Overcoming Thyroid Disorders, 3
rd
 Edition
. 1
 Second National Report on Biochemical Indicators of Diet and Nutrition in the U.S. Population. http://www.cdc.gov/nutritionreport/pdf/Nutrition_Book_complete508_final.pdf#zoom=100
. Accessed 7.4.13
2
 Thyroid. Vol. 23. N. 8. 2013. DOI: 10.1089/thy.2013.0012
3
 Thyroid. Vol. 21 N. 4. 2011
 
4
 Hollowell et al., J Clin Endocrinol Metab 83:3401-3408, 1998
 
5
 WHO. Assessment of iodine deficiency disorders and monitoring their elimination, 2nd Edition. 2001. 6
 Eur. J. Endocr. 2000. Oct; 143(4):485-91
7
 Okerland, M. Medical Applications of Fluorescent Excitation Analysis. 1979
8
 Wsrchr Ges Heilk. 1840; 6; 197
9
 Disease of the Heart and Aorta. Hodges and Smith, Bublin. 1854; 278
10
 Trousseau, A. Lectures on Clinical Medicine. Vol. 1. Lecture XI. Exopthalmic Goiter of Graves’ Disease. London. 1868;
587
11
 Med Cl North America, 1925; 8:1145-1151
12
 J Iowa Med Soc, 1924; 14:65
13
 M. Rec. 1921; 99:996-999
14
 Arch. Int. Med. 1924:34:355-364
15
 Arch. Int. Med. 1930; 45; 481-502
16
 Solomon, B. Current trends in the management of Graves’ disease. J. Clin. Endocrn. Metab. 1990:70:1518
17
 Cooper, D. In Werner and Ingbar’s The Thyroid. 2000. Lippincott, Williams and Wilkins. 18
 J. Insur. Med. 2001; 33(2):138-42
19
 Metso, S. The J. of Clin. Endocrin. And Metab. 92(6):2190-2196. 2007
20
 Aceves, C. Is iodine a gatekeeper of the integrity of the mammary gland? J. of mammary gland biol. and neoplasia. Vol. 10, No2. April 2005Chapter 7
The Selenium/Iodine Connection 
Chapter 7: The Selenium/Iodine Connection
Selenium is a trace element that is essential for health. It cannot be manufactured in our bodies; therefore, it must be found in
our diets or taken as a supplement. Adequate selenium levels are necessary for regulating thyroid function and iodine metabolism. Small (microgram) amounts of selenium are necessary for maintaining optimal levels. What Foods Provide Selenium? Plant foods are the world’s major dietary source of selenium. The plant-based content of selenium is dependent on the
selenium found in the soil where the plants are grown. Selenium can also be found in meat and seafood. Nuts can also contain
selenium, with Brazil nuts containing the largest amount (544μg/ounce). In the U.S., meats and breads are common sources of
selenium. 1
 The content of selenium found in common foods is listed in 
Table 6
. Table 6: Content of Selenium in Common Food
Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) For Selenium
The RDA for selenium is 55μg/day in adults which is based on the dietary selenium required to maximize the activity of the
antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase. 2
 
3
Selenium Deficiency
In the U.S., it is estimated that most adults ingest about 100μg/day of selenium, which is above the RDA. 4
 Although the
intake of selenium may appear adequate to maintain glutathione peroxidase activity, the RDA does not take into account the toxic
load that may be affecting the glutathione activity in the body. The more toxic agents, such as pesticides, mercury, chlorine, and bromine that we come in contact with, the more glutathione
peroxidase will be needed to help to detoxify these agents. Selenium deficiency can be the rate-limiting step in the body’s
production of glutathione. Studies have found selenium depletion in individuals with gastrointestinal disorders such as Crohn’s disease or those with
surgical removal of part of the intestines or stomach. 5
 
6
 
7
 Selenium deficiency has been linked to an increased risk of:
Death from cancer of the lung, colorectal, and prostate 
8
 
9
 
10
 
11
Arthritis
12
 
13
Heart disease and cardiomyopathy 
14
HIV disease progression
The exact mechanism of selenium deficiency causing the above illnesses has not been elucidated. One hypothesis is that
selenium acts as an antioxidant (in part, through glutathione peroxidase) and can counter the oxidant damage caused by variousillnesses. Selenium Toxicity
Selenium has a narrow margin of safety. Unlike vitamin C, where large doses are rarely harmful, larger doses of selenium can
cause adverse effects. Selenosis is a condition of high blood levels of selenium (>100μg/dl). Symptoms of selenosis include: hair
loss, fatigue, irritability, garlic breath odor, and mild nerve damage. 15
 The Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of
Sciences has set the upper intake level of selenium at 400μg/day for adults to prevent the risk of selenosis. 16
 My 21 years of
practicing nutritional medicine has shown 100-400μg/day of selenium to be a safe range. These doses have not caused selenosis
in any patients. Selenium and Iodine
Selenium is a required component of at least 11 enzymes. Without selenium, these enzymes would be nonfunctional. Life itself
is not possible without selenium and the selenoenzymes. This chapter will focus on two of the selenoenzymes: glutathione
peroxidase and iodothyronine deiodinase. Glutathione Peroxidase
Four separate glutathione peroxidase enzymes have been identified. Each of these enzymes has antioxidant capabilities and
protects the body from oxidant damage. Recall from 
Chapter 5
, the oxidation of iodide (shown below). The Oxidation of Iodide
 
The oxidation reaction is catalyzed by the interaction of H
2
O
2
 and thyroperoxidase (TPO). Furthermore, we established that
too much hydrogen peroxide could damage TPO and cause Hashimoto’s disease. One of the controlling features of this reaction is the 
enzyme glutathione peroxidase. Glutathione peroxidase can react with
H
2
O
2
 to reduce hydrogen peroxide to water. Figure 14
 illustrates this principle. FIGURE 14: Glutathione Peroxidase
 
If there is not adequate selenium available, there will be insufficient glutathione peroxidase to reduce and neutralize excess
H
2
O
2
. Excess hydrogen peroxide can cause the oxidative damage to TPO and initiate the start of autoimmune thyroiditis. Animal
studies have agreed with this model. 17
IODOTHYRONINE DEIODINASES
Iodothyronine deiodinases are enzymes that are responsible for activating and deactivating thyroid hormone. These agents
work by removing an iodine molecule. For example, the thyroid gland releases a large amount of the inactive form of thyroid
hormone T4 into the circulation. T4 has to be converted to T3 to become the active form of thyroid hormone. Iodothyronine
deiodinase, a selenium-containing enzyme, is responsible for this conversion as shown in 
Figure 15
. Selenium 
deficiency has been
shown to decrease deiodinase protein and activity. 18
 
FIGURE 15: Iodothyronine Deiodinase
How Much Selenium Should You Take?Selenium levels can be checked through the hair, serum, or nail clippings. I have found hair selenium levels very reliable. In
order to achieve the best results, I suggest working with a health care practitioner knowledgeable about natural therapies. Supplementing with selenium in doses of 100-200μg/day has proven safe and effective at correcting selenium deficiencies. FINAL THOUGHTS
Selenium is a very important trace element. Adequate selenium levels are necessary to maintain optimal thyroid function. If
selenium is deficient, inadequate glutathione peroxidase will be produced. This can set the stage for autoimmune thyroid disorders
to begin as the thyroid gland can be damaged by H
2
O
2
. Adequate selenium levels can ensure 
optimal glutathione peroxidase
production and help protect the thyroid gland from oxidative damage. Selenium is also important for activating thyroid hormone (via iodothyronine deiodinase, 
Figure 15
). I have treated many
patients with hypothyroid symptoms that resolve when the underlying nutritional deficiencies, such as selenium deficiency, are
rectified. If you have side effects with iodine therapy, I suggest looking at selenium deficiency as a possible cause. If your selenium
levels are low, supplementing with selenium may correct the problem. 1
 NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. www.nih.gov/factsheets/selenium.asp
. Accessed 8.19.07
2
 NIH
3
 Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes of Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Selenium and
Carotenoids. Washington D.C.: National Academy Press; 2000:284-324
4
 Bialostosky K, Wright JD, Kennedy-Stephenson J, McDowell M, Johnson CL. Dietary intake of macronutrients,
micronutrients and other dietary constituents: United States 1988-94. Vital Heath Stat. 11(245) ed: National Center for Health
Statistics, 2002. 5
 Kuroki, F. Selenium is depleted in Crohn’s disease on enteral nutrition. Dig. Dise. 2003; 21:266-70
6
 Bjerre, B. Hyposelaemia: Patients with gastrointestinal disease are at risk. J. Intern. Med. 1989; 225; 85-8
7
 NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. IBID. Accessed 8.19.07
8
 Russo, MW. Plasma Selenium levels and the risk of colorectal adenomas. Nutr. Cancer. 1997; 28125-9
9
 Knekt, P. Is low selenium status a risk factor for lung cancer. Am. J. Epidem. 1998; 148:975-82
10
 Fleet, JC. Dietary selenium repletion may reduce cancer incidence in people at high risk who live in areas with low soil
selenium. Nutr. Rev. 1997:55:277-9
11
 Garland, M. Prospective study of toenail selenium levels and cancer among women. J. Nat’l Cancer Inst. 1995:87: 497-
505
12
 Stone J, Doube A, Dudson D, Wallace J. Inadequate calcium, folic acid, vitamin E, zinc, and selenium intake in rheumatoid
arthritis patients: Results of a dietary survey. Semin Arthritis Rheum 1997; 27:180-5. 13
 Kose K, Dogan P, Kardas Y, Saraymen R. Plasma selenium levels in rheumatoid arthritis. Biol Trace Elem Res 1996;
53:51-6. 14
 Gey KF. Vitamins E plus C and interacting co-nutrients required for optimal health. A critical and constructive review of
epidemiology and supplementation data regarding cardiovascular disease and cancer. Biofactors 1998; 7:113-74
15
 Godlhaber, SB. Trace element risk assessment: Essentiality vs. Toxicity. Reg. Toxic. And Pharm. 2003; 38; 232-42
16
 NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. IBID. Accessed 8.19.07
17
 Hotz, C. Dietary iodine and selenium interact to affect thyroid hormone metabolism of rats. J. of Nutr. Vol. 127, No. 6. June 1997 p. 1214-1218
18
 Huang, K. The uptake of Na-selenite in rat brain. Localization of new glutathione peroxidases in the rat brain. Biol. Trace. Elem. Res. 46: 91Chapter 8
Iodine, Breast Cancer, and Fibrocystic Breast Disease 
CHAPTER 8: IODINE, BREAST CANCER AND FIBROCYSTIC BREAST DISEASE
Joan, a 60-year-old English teacher, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1989. She refused conventional therapy and
looked for other options. She found a holistic doctor who recommended that she take 2mg/day of iodine in addition to a
regimen of vitamins and minerals. She was also diagnosed with hypothyroidism and treated with thyroid hormone. Over
the next ten years, she felt well and continued to teach. The tumor metastasized in early 2005. Joan’s tumor markers also
increased and she felt very fatigued. She lost 25 pounds of weight by July 2005. “I felt like I was dying,” she said. After
she read of Dr. Abraham’s research on iodine, she found a doctor to prescribe 
iodine for her. She increased the iodine
dose from 2mg/day to 50-62.5mg/day using a tablet form of Lugol’s (Iodoral
®
). As she increased the iodine, she was able
to stop the thyroid hormone. After six weeks of taking the higher iodine dose, Joan had a PET scan. The PET scan
showed that all of the existing tumors were disintegrating. The central areas of the tumors were disintegrating after just
42 days of taking a higher dose of iodine. “I am so grateful for this information as it is surely saving my life,” Joan
claimed. Joan’s case is not unique. Iodine can cause tumors to shrink and necrose from the center. I have observed similar results with
nodules and cysts in the thyroid, ovaries, and uterus after instituting orthoiodosupplementation. This chapter will explore the relationship between iodine deficiency and disorders of the breast, including fibrocystic breast
disease and breast cancer as well as other cancers. For over 60 years, it has been known that iodine concentrates in and is
secreted by the mammary glands. The breasts are one of the body’s main storage and utilization sites for iodine. An adequate
iodine level is necessary for the development and maintenance of normal breast architecture. Milk from lactating breasts contains
four times more of the ingested iodine than the amount taken up by the thyroid gland. 1
Animal studies have shown conclusively that an iodine deficient state can alter the structure and function of the breasts. After
my own research and study, I concur with several investigators that iodine deficiency is a causative factor in breast cancer and
fibrocystic breast disease. I believe it is essential that women have their iodine levels tested, and if it is shown there is an iodine
deficiency, iodine supplementation should be initiated. The breasts are one of the body’s main storage sites for iodine in the body. In an iodine-deficient state, the thyroid gland and
the breasts will compete for what little iodine is available. Therefore, this will leave the thyroid gland and the breasts iodine
depleted and can set the stage for illnesses such as goiter, hypothyroidism, autoimmune thyroid illness, and breast illnesses
including cancer and cystic breast disease. In addition, other glandular tissues, such as the ovaries which contain the second
highest concentration of iodine in the body, will also be depleted in an iodine-deficient state. IODINE: THE ANTICANCER AGENT
Iodine has many anticancer properties. Cancer cells, unlike normal cells, do not have a normal life cycle; they just keep
dividing over and over. Normal cells have a life cycle, and when they eventually die, they are replaced with a new cell. This
process of timed cellular death is known as apoptosis. Iodine has been shown to induce apoptosis (death) in breast and thyroid
cancer cells. However, this apoptotic effect will be negated if a goitrogen is given. 2
 More about apoptosis is found in 
Chapter 5
. How does iodine provide this apoptotic effect? One mechanism may be the iodination of lipids. Lipids are fats that make up
our cell membranes throughout our body. Iodine can become incorporated into lipids (fats) inside the cell. These substances are
known as iodo-lipids. When iodine is incorporated into the lipids, it helps to stabilize them and also helps each cell to maintain a
normal life cycle (see 
Chapter 5
 for more information on iodo-lipids). Iodine has been shown to be a potent antioxidant even more effective than vitamin E, phosphatidyl choline, and vitamin C.
3
 
4
5
 As with vitamin C, iodine can function as both an antioxidant as well as an oxidant in the body. This dual effect makes it a strong
anticancer agent. One of the best signs of health in the body is a balance between antioxidants and oxidants. Items like iodine and
vitamin C can help maintain that balance, and therefore, are some of the most powerful anti-cancer agents known. Delores, an active 73-year-old woman, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2003. She refused conventional therapy
and wanted an alternative treatment. “Why would I do chemotherapy and radiation when the doctors told me that these
treatments may not help? They could not give me good statistics that these 
treatments would prolong my life. When I
asked them to help me find the cause of this illness, they just had a blank stare in their eyes. When I read about the
relationship between iodine and breast cancer, I asked my doctor about it and he said, “There is enough iodine in salt”. When I saw Delores, I measured her iodine and bromide levels as part of a study I was conducting on breast cancer
patients. Her results are summarized below. Delores: Urinary Excretion of Iodide and Bromide Before and After Taking Iodine
 
Delores’ initial results show that she was excreting large amounts of the toxic halide bromide at the same time that
her body was very deficient in iodine. After taking 50mg of iodine/iodide (Iodoral
®
), her bromide excretion increased and
still was elevated after 30 days of taking iodine. At the same time that her body was absorbing iodine, it was also
excreting the toxic 
halide bromine. Delores was treated with a holistic treatment program that included vitamins,
minerals, and bioidentical hormones in addition to other natural items to support her detoxification pathways. This
holistic regimen included the use of Celtic Sea Salt
®
 and iodine. The salt and iodine were utilized to help the body
detoxify bromide. After three months on this program, Delores felt significantly improved. “My energy level was so much
better. I can now do ten times what I could do before,” she said. Delores had a repeat ultrasound 18 months after starting the iodine-based therapy and the radiologist reported on
the ultrasound, “It would seem, therefore, that these malignancies have diminished considerably in size. The breast
cancer appears considerably diminished when compared to previous ultrasound. Interval improvement is definitely
seen.”
Update on Delores’ condition: It has now been nearly two years and Delores has been taking iodine as well as the
nutrient therapies described. Delores just had a follow-up mammogram and ultrasound which failed to show any
abnormality. Both were read by the radiologist as normal and she was recommended to have yearly mammogram
screening. New 5
th
 Edition Update on Delores: Delores is still doing well with no signs of breast cancer. I see her twice per year
for routine follow-up. At our last visit she reported that she was 
feeling well. “I am glad I followed a natural program. Who knows what all those toxins would have done to me,” she said. There is a wealth of research showing the connection between iodine deficiency and breast cancer. We should be searching
for underlying cause(s) of cancer and formulating a treatment program tailored to addressing the underlying cause(s). The “war”
on breast cancer began 35 years ago. The progress in treating breast cancer with chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation has been
dismal. Survival rates for breast cancer victims are virtually unchanged over the last 70 years
6
, even with the use of
mammograms, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Iodine deficiency as well as other toxicities (especially the toxic halides bromine and fluoride) must be investigated. Perhaps
rectifying iodine deficiency will be the missing piece of the puzzle to solving the riddle of breast cancer. Delores’ results have been
repeated over and over in my practice. I believe all women need to be evaluated for their iodine status before they reach the
stage of breast cancer. ESTROGENS AND IODINE: THE CONNECTION
This section will deal with the relationship between iodine and estrogens. Estrogens are a class of steroid hormones produced
and secreted in both men and women. In men, most of the estrogen is produced in the adrenal glands, fat tissue, and 
liver. The
amount of estrogen in men is ten times lower than it is in women. In women, estrogens control female sexual development including promoting the growth and function of the female sexual
organs such as the ovaries, uterus, and breasts. The ovaries produce most of the estrogen in women, with smaller amounts
produced in the adrenal glands and the fat tissue. DIFFERENT FORMS OF ESTROGEN
There are three major types of estrogen produced in the female body: estrone (E1), estradiol (E2), and estriol (E3). Estriol is
a much weaker estrogen than either estrone or estradiol. Research has shown that estriol may be able to prevent breast cancer in
mice. 7
 Furthermore, estriol is less stimulating to breast tissue than either estradiol or estrone and may have a protective effect for
breast cancer. My colleague, Jonathan Wright, M.D., measured the estrogen levels in healthy twenty to forty-year-old womenand found that estriol was produced at much larger amounts than either estrone or estradiol. 8
 Estrogen replacement therapy has
been promoted to help women with menopausal symptoms, osteoporosis, and other illnesses. Common sense would argue that
to achieve the greatest benefit from estrogen replacement therapy, we should try to mimic the body’s own production of estrogen. In other words, we should use the same proportions of estrone, estradiol, and estriol normally produced in 
the healthy body. Estrogen production in the body can be monitored by measuring the amounts of estrone, estradiol, and estriol that are present in
biological fluid. When there are imbalances in estrogen production, such as lowered amounts of estriol and larger amounts of
estrone and estradiol, problems such as fibrocystic breasts, cancer, and weight gain may develop. Dr. Wright has reported compelling data that iodine, in the form of Lugol’s solution (iodine and iodide) can help maintain the
correct balance of the three estrogens. Specifically, Dr. Wright has reported that Lugol’s solution will help the body metabolize the
estrogens to favor the safer form of estrogen—estriol. My experience has found the same results; the use of iodine helps to
maintain a balanced estrogen ratio in favor of estriol. 9
For women, a balance of estrogens is vitally important for numerous bodily functions including ensuring optimal function of the
brain, breast development, and lubrication of the skin. In addition, estrogen balance helps to ensure strong bones and may help to
prevent cardiovascular disease. Imbalances in estrogen production are associated with weight gain, mood swings, and disorders
such as diabetes as well as cancer of the breast, ovary, and uterus. Estrogen balance is impossible to maintain when there is
iodine deficiency present. For more information on the use of estrogens and other natural hormones, I refer the reader to my
book, 
The Miracle of Natural Hormones, 3
rd
 Edition. IODINE ALTERS GENE EXPRESSION IN THE BREASTS
Researchers have recently reported that the combination of iodine/iodide (e.g., Lugol’s solution) has been shown to alter gene
expression in estrogen-responsive breast cancer cells. They found that iodine down-regulated (lowered) several estrogen
responsive genes. They also reported that iodine increased BRCA1 activity. BRCA1 is a gene that modulates estrogen activity in
the breast. People with abnormalities in BRCA1 are at a markedly increased risk for breast cancer. Finally, the same researchers
reported that iodine/iodide therapy “…could enhance the efficacy of Tamoxifen therapy…thus preventing or slowing the
development of Tamoxifen resistance.”
10
This is a very important study showing that iodine can favorably influence the gene expression in breast cancer. Future
research will undoubtedly build on this concept. IODINE DEFICIENCY AND THE BREASTS
Iodine deficiency has been shown to produce specific changes in the breast tissue of rats. Studies dating back nearly 40 years
ago show that iodine deficiency in rats produces the exact precancerous changes seen in humans—dysplasia and hyperplasia. 11
12
 Furthermore, with long-term iodine depletion, more atypical changes in rat breast tissue occur. 13
 This is the precursor to breast
cancer. Dr. Bernard Eskin, one of the world’s foremost researchers on iodine and the breast, writes, “In all these studies, termination
of dietary iodine restriction…results in a variable modest return toward the normal {breast} structure.”
14
Dr. Eskin has studied the effects of estrogen and iodine in rats. He has found that rats need an adequate level of iodine in
order for estrogen to perform its normal function in breast tissue. 15
Researchers have demonstrated that rats given certain carcinogens will develop breast cancer. When iodine is given along
with the carcinogens, tumor formation is blocked. 16
 
17
 These studies would indicate that iodine has the ability to block cancer
progression in the breast tissue. It is known that the ovaries concentrate a large amount of iodine. After the thyroid, the ovaries have the second largest
concentration of iodine in the body. Iodine deficiency produces changes in the ovarian production of estrogens as well as changes
in the estrogen receptors of the breasts. In an iodine-deficient state, research has shown that ovarian estrogen production
increases, while estrogen receptors in the breast increase their sensitivity to estrogens. 18
 
19
 Both of these conditions will increase
the risk of developing pathology of the breasts including breast cancer. PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHOR: ESTROGEN AND IODINE AND THE CONNECTION TO CANCER
Iodine deficiency has many consequences. First, it causes estrogen production to increase. Iodine deficiency also leads to an
increased sensitivity of breast tissue to estrogen. All of the above conditions will increase the chances of developing disease(s) of
the breast including breast cancer. When you factor in our exposure to environmental estrogens, including xenoestrogens found in
plastics, and pesticides, as well as meat and dairy products, it is no wonder that hormone-sensitive cancers like breast (as well as
prostate, ovarian, and uterine) cancer have reached epidemic proportions. Research in animals has shown that the correction of
iodine deficiency results in abnormal breast tissue changing back to normal breast tissue. My clinical experience has shown the
same positive results occur with my human patients. This chapter will explore this concept in more detail. FIBROCYSTIC BREAST DISEASE
Fibrocystic breast disease is a condition whereby the breasts have cysts that are usually painful to touch. Up to two-thirds of
American women suffer from fibrocystic breast disease. In fibrocystic breast disease, the texture of the cysts can vary from softto firm. Many times these cysts can change size and shape during the menstrual cycle, and they can cause discomfort
premenstrually. Although fibrocystic breast disease is generally thought of as a benign condition, there are many physicians who
feel that the abnormal breast architecture found in fibrocystic disease is a precursor for breast cancer, and this has been confirmed
in various studies. 20
 
21
 
22
Estrogens have been implicated as a causative factor for fibrocystic disease and breast cancer. In fact, one of the most
common treatments in conventional medicine for fibrocystic disease is to use birth control pills to suppress the ovaries and lower
the amount of circulating estrogen in the body. As repeated hormonal cycles progress, oftentimes the fibrocystic changes in the breast will worsen. The breasts can become
chronically inflamed and hardened. Many women suffer terribly with this illness. Dietary factors can also worsen fibrocystic breast disease. Caffeine and foods that contain trans-fatty acids can exacerbate
fibrocystic breast disease. Eliminating caffeine and eating foods rich in healthy fats, including essential fatty acids, will help alleviate
many of the complaints of fibrocystic breast disease. Also, vitamin and mineral supplementation can alleviate this condition. Both vitamin E and vitamin A have both been shown in
studies to improve fibrocystic breasts. Iodine has also been shown to be extremely effective in treating and preventing fibrocystic breasts. 23
 In fact, iodine has 
been
the most researched mineral in treating fibrocystic breast disease. MaryAnn, age 45, works as a nurse at a local hospital. MaryAnn suffered from fibrocystic breast disease for over 15
years. She said, “My breasts feel like two rocks. I can’t do aerobics or exercise heavily because the bouncing causes
tremendous pain.” MaryAnn was going to a specialized cystic breast clinic at the University of Michigan. Frequently, she
was having breast cysts drained, only to have them reappear a short time later. Dietary changes, including removing the
caffeine did help somewhat. MaryAnn was so miserable she was contemplating a bilateral mastectomy. MaryAnn was
found to be severely iodine deficient (iodine challenge test showed 27% excretion with normal levels >90%). She was
treated with Iodoral
®
 50mg per day and within one month had a dramatic change in her condition. She called me on the
phone and reported, “Dr. Brownstein, I was at the University of Michigan clinic yesterday and the doctor told me he
thought my breasts weren’t mine. The two rocks I had are now soft and normal feeling. All of the cysts are gone and all of
the pain is gone. This has been a miracle for me. I can’t believe one nutrient could have such a positive impact on my
life.”
New 5
th
 Edition update on MaryAnn: MaryAnn comes into my office twice per year for routine care. She recently
reported, “I 
am feeling fabulous since I started taking iodine. My mammograms are now normal.” MaryAnn has no signs
of fibrocystic breast disease as long as she takes iodine. Darlene, at age 39, suffered from fibrocystic breast disease for over five years. “Sometimes I am absolutely
miserable. I cannot stand anything touching my breasts. It feels like there is a tourniquet around them,” she said. Darlene’s symptoms would get worse around her menses. She said, “My husband knows not to get within five feet of me. If I bump into anything, I feel like crying.” Darlene was told to alter her diet and give up caffeine and chocolate, which
did help some of her symptoms. “The change in the diet did help, but I was still miserable,” she claimed. When I checked
Darlene’s iodine levels, her iodine-loading tests showed a 50% excretion (normal is 90%). After two weeks of
supplementing with an iodine/iodide combination (Iodoral
®
), Darlene’s condition rapidly improved. “I just woke up one
morning and I wasn’t in pain. I could not believe it. I feel like I have been given my life back,” she said. In addition, the
iodine significantly improved her energy and mood levels. Darlene says, “I can’t believe how much better I feel.”
MaryAnn and Darlene’s cases are typical of many with fibrocystic breast disease. Usually, the improvement in fibrocystic
symptoms occurs rapidly when there is an iodine-deficient state present. THYROID DISEASE, IODINE, AND CANCER
For well over 100 years, iodine deficiency has been associated with a swelling of the thyroid or goiter. Goiter has also been
associated with cancers of the breast, stomach, esophagus, ovaries, and uterus. 24
 
25
 
26
 My colleague, Jorge Flechas, M.D.,
reports a “definite increase in the incidence of breast cancer, stomach cancer, ovarian cancer, and thyroid cancer with the
presence of iodine deficiency.”
27
 I have seen similar results in my practice. BREAST CANCER AND HYPOTHYROIDISM
Because breast cancer is occurring at epidemic rates, it is important to discuss this topic again. The relationship between
hypothyroidism and breast cancer has been reported for over 100 years. In fact, the first reported connection between these two
illnesses was mentioned in 1896. Although there has not been a consensus opinion on the relationship between breast cancer and
hypothyroidism, many researchers feel there is a direct connection. Researchers have found that hypothyroidism is much more common in women with breast cancer. 28
 
29
 Other researchers
have found that the use of thyroid hormones may cause a higher incidence of breast cancer. 30
 Although there has been a great
controversy in medicine on verifying the relationship 
between hypothyroidism and breast cancer, my experience has shown thatthere is a connection. It is known that hypothyroidism predisposes one to a poorly functioning immune system. This can set the stage for serious
illnesses such as cancer. One would think that the treatment of hypothyroidism with thyroid hormone would improve the condition
of breast cancer, since it should improve the functioning of the immune system. However, this has not been shown to be the case
in some studies. In fact, some studies point to an exacerbation of breast cancer when thyroid hormones are used to treat a
hypothyroid condition. One study found that hypothyroid women who took thyroid hormone had a 50% increased risk of breast cancer. 31
Furthermore, as compared to women who were taking thyroid hormone for less than 15 years, the same researchers reported a
200% increased risk of breast cancer in women who were taking thyroid hormone for more than 15 years. The results of this
study are illustrated in 
Figure 16
, 
page 168
. 32
WHY WOULD THE TREATMENT OF HYPOTHYROIDISM RESULT IN AN INCREASED RISK OF BREAST
CANCER? THE IODINE CONNECTION
When hypothyroidism is present, the body is in a hypometabolic state. In other words, all bodily functions slowdown and the
consequences of this state include cold extremities, dry skin, fatigue, brain fog and weight gain. Figure 16: Increased Risk of Breast Cancer the Longer Women Took Thyroid Hormone
When thyroid hormone is ingested, it results in an increased metabolic state which reverses all of the above conditions. ATP is the body’s “high octane” energy source. Thyroid hormone utilizes ATP to increase the body’s metabolic rate. This
increased metabolism helps the body produce more heat, lose weight, overcome fatigue, etc. If thyroid hormone is given to an
iodine-deficient patient, the increased metabolic rate due to thyroid hormone will actually increase the body’s need for iodine as
well as decreasing the ability of the cells of the body to concentrate iodine. Iodine uptake by the cells is an energy dependent process which requires ATP. Thyroid hormones use the energy available for
the synthesis of ATP to produce heat. This effect lowers the available ATP for cellular uptake of iodine by the target cells. If 
there
are lowered ATP levels in the body, the target cells have a more difficult time concentrating iodine. Finally, if a hypothyroid condition is treated with thyroid hormone and there is also iodine deficiency present, the use of
thyroid hormone will exacerbate an iodine-deficient condition. In other words, if you treat with thyroid hormone without first
correcting for iodine deficiency, you will increase the body’s need for iodine and worsen the iodine-deficient problem that is
already present. The only logical explanation that ties the treatment of hypothyroidism with an increased risk of developing breast cancer
would be the presence of an iodine deficiency. In simpler terms, thyroid hormones introduced into the body will raise the body’s need for iodine. The breasts, like the thyroid
gland, have an advanced system for absorbing and storing iodine. When there is iodine deficiency, the breasts and the thyroid
gland enlarge to compensate for that deficiency. In both cases, iodine deficiency induces hyperplasia, which is a precancerous
lesion. This will set the stage for thyroid and breast diseases, including cancer of the thyroid gland and the breasts. If iodine deficiency is present, the use of thyroid hormone supplementation without first correcting (or simultaneously
correcting) the iodine deficit will exacerbate the body’s deficit of 
iodine. The result of this can be an increase in disorders caused
by iodine deficiency such as cancers of the breast and thyroid. THE BREASTS AND IODINE
The therapeutic use of iodine in treating breast cancer was first described in the medical literature in 1896. 33
 There is a direct
relationship between breast cancer (as well as goiter) and regions of the world where iodine deficiency is prevalent. Countries
such as Japan and Iceland have higher intakes of iodine and lower rates of goiter and breast cancer. On the other hand, countries
such as the United States, Mexico, and Thailand have lower iodine intake and higher incidences of both breast cancer and
goiter. 34
 Some countries such as Poland, Switzerland, Australia, and Russia have been found to have high rates of breast cancerassociated with localized pockets of iodine deficiency. In the United States, a correlation has been found between higher mortality
rates from breast cancer and areas of iodine deficiency (e.g., Great Lakes region). 35
Cathy, 49 years old, was diagnosed with breast cancer one year ago. She said, “I was devastated. I thought I took
good care of myself and my life was shattered. When I asked the surgeon, ‘How did I get it?’ He answered, ‘I don’t know’. His only concern was doing surgery and getting me ready for chemotherapy. I was not satisfied with that.” Cathy did
elect to have a bilateral mastectomy and chemotherapy, but still searched for why this 
may have happened to her. When I
examined Cathy, I found her to have a serum iodine level below the detection limits as well as having a very low iodine
loading test—22% (normal > 90%). In treating her with iodine/iodide (Iodoral
®
), she noticed an immediate improvement
in her overall health. “I was having fatigue and leg cramps. The fatigue was debilitating. I felt like an old woman,” she
said. Three weeks after starting the iodine, both conditions improved dramatically. “It was a miracle. The leg cramps
and leg pains melted away but, more importantly, the fatigue left. My brain started functioning again, and I began to feel
like my old self. Even my friends began asking me what I was taking, since I looked so much better,” she said. Iodine has been found to be necessary for the maintenance of normal breast tissue in both animals and humans. 36
 
37
 
38
 
39
Iodine was found to have a suppressive effect on the development and the size of mammary tumors in rats. 40
 This
suppressive effect was enhanced with the use of progesterone. The enhancement of iodine uptake with progesterone has also
been found in other tissue including the uterus and the ovary. 41
 These studies prove that the optimal use of iodine is best
undertaken as part of a comprehensive holistic treatment program, which emphasizes balancing the hormonal system as well as
correcting nutrient deficits. For more information on 
bioidentical hormones, I refer the reader to my book, 
The Miracle of
Natural Hormones, 3
rd
 Edition. THE BREASTS AND TOXIC HALIDES: IS THERE AN ASSOCIATION WITH BREAST CANCER? The halides are a group of elements that share a similar size and shape. Chapter 11
 will cover this topic in much more detail. Fluoride, bromine, iodide, chloride, and astatide make up this family. Iodine and chloride are the only halides that have
therapeutic effects in the body. Bromide is a toxic element that has a chemical structure very similar to iodine. This similarity can cause bromine to bind to
iodine receptors and possibly interfere with iodine transport in the body. Bromine is found in many food items such as bakery
products, and some sodas, as well as many prescription items. In addition, bromine is found in many fire-retardant chemicals
added to furniture, carpets, etc. Crops are sprayed with bromine as a fumigant for agriculture. When there is iodine deficiency
present, bromine toxicity will be exacerbated. Fluoride is put in the water supply, toothpaste, and many drinks as a preventive measure against dental caries. There is little
evidence to support the idea that fluoride prevents cavities. Furthermore, there is much research that shows that fluoride (in the
amounts ingested by drinking fluoridated water) can cause 
dental fluorosis, hip fractures, bone cancer, and other negative effects. Fluoride toxicity will be covered in more detail in 
Chapter 11
. I undertook a study in my office to look at the difference in iodine, fluoride, and bromine levels in eight women with breast
cancer versus ten women without breast cancer. Please refer to 
Chapter 11
 for a further discussion of this study and the results. This study showed that all of the women tested--those with breast cancer as well as those without breast cancer--had low
iodine levels. Those women with breast cancer were found to have much larger amounts of the toxic halides bromine and fluoride
as compared to the women without breast cancer. The toxicity of bromine and fluoride are exacerbated in an iodine-deficient
state. Perhaps the reason we have an epidemic of breast cancer is not only due to iodine deficiency, but also to the toxicity of the
halogens fluoride and bromine which inhibit iodine uptake by the tissues of the body. Effective breast cancer therapies will not be
realized until the causative factors of breast cancer are more thoroughly studied. THE JAPANESE: A POPULATION WITH A HIGH IODINE INTAKE AND A LOW RATE OF BREAST DISEASE
AND GOITER
It has been estimated that the mainland Japanese ingest approximately 13.8mg of iodine per day, which is over 100 times 
the
RDA. 42
 Japanese from the coastal areas ingest more iodine than the average inland Japanese consume. The mainland Japanese
receive much of their iodine from seaweed, which is known to concentrate iodine. What is the effect of ingesting this larger amount of iodine? The Japanese, who consume a large amount of iodine by U.S.
RDA standards, have remarkably lower levels of breast, endometrial, and ovarian cancers. In addition, there is a significantly
lower amount of fibrocystic breast disease in Japanese women who consume the larger amount of iodine. Over 30 years ago,
research showed that Japanese women who move to the United States have a higher rate and mortality of breast, endometrial,
and ovarian cancer as compared to mainland Japanese women. 43
 I believe this increase in mortality of Japanese women is due to
falling iodine levels. It has been known for over 50 years that there is an association between breast cancer and iodine levels. There have been
many articles written in medical literature pointing towards a direct relationship between low iodine levels and the development of
breast cancer in various regions of the world, including the United States. 44
 
45Joyce, 52 years old, was diagnosed with breast cancer two years ago. “I thought I was in great shape. I used to
exercise, and I watched what I ate. When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I 
was devastated,” she said. Joyce did not
want to undergo chemotherapy and radiation. Joyce claimed, “I did not have a chemotherapy and radiation deficiency. I
have done a lot of reading on breast cancer, and I was worried about the side effects from the chemotherapy and
radiation. I wanted to search for an underlying cause and find a treatment for that.” Joyce had a long history of
fibrocystic breast disease and dense breasts on a mammogram. My initial examination and laboratory workup of Joyce
revealed an enlarged thyroid gland (i.e., goiter). Laboratory tests showed evidence of a poorly functioning immune
system (low natural killer cells and low immunoglobulin levels as well as a low white blood cell count). An iodine-loading
test showed Joyce was extremely low (12% excretion with normal levels >90%). Joyce was treated with a combination of
iodine/iodide (Iodoral
®
) four pills per day (50mg of iodide/iodine) for three months. After three months, her iodine-
loading test improved to normal and her dose of iodine was lowered to two pills per day (25mg). During that time, Joyce
noticed an improvement in her energy and overall better health. “I felt wonderful once I started taking iodine. My energy
level zoomed up and my metabolism increased. All my friends started asking me what I was doing, since I looked so
much better,” she said. Joyce was also treated holistically with a detoxification program and given vitamins and
minerals. Her laboratory markers all improved as well. Her doctors felt the 
changes in her breasts. “My doctor told me
that my breast tissue felt much softer. He said that my breasts felt much healthier,” she claimed. With her improved
laboratory markers, I feel Joyce will have a better chance to overcome her illness. Was iodine deficiency the underlying
cause of her cancer? I don’t have the definitive answer to that question, but an iodine-deficient state will not only set the
stage for breast illness such as cancer to develop, it will make it extremely difficult for the body to overcome such
illnesses. Update on Joyce: After three years of iodine supplementation, Joyce’s iodine loading test is now normal (92%
excretion). She continues to feel well and there have been no signs that the cancer is progressing. The initial lesions seen
on radiologic exam have gotten slightly smaller. Joyce is seen by a surgeon and she undergoes radiologic tests every six
months. New 5
th
 Edition Update on Joyce: Joyce is still supplementing with iodine and feeling well. There are still no signs of
progression of the cancer. Joyce recently stated, “The best decision I made was to go the holistic route. The iodine has
really helped me out. I am thankful for how good I feel.”
IODINE DEFICIENCY AND PROSTATE CANCER
Although the research is not as complete as it is for breast cancer, I believe the cause of prostate cancer in men is similar to
the cause of breast cancer in women. Japanese men have much lower rates of prostate cancer than American men. Japanese men
that move to the United States have a higher rate of prostate cancer than mainland Japanese. This analogy is similar to the
increased incidence of breast cancer in Japanese women who move to the United States. I believe iodine deficiency is the link (or
at least one of the links) and is responsible for the increased risk of prostate cancer. Mainland Japanese men have a much lower
prostate cancer mortality rate than American men because of their higher iodine intake. When iodine levels fall, the rates of
prostate cancer will begin to increase. I believe future research needs to be directed in this area. ANIMALS IN AN IODINE-DEFICIENT STATE WILL DEVELOP BREAST CANCER
Animal research has shown that in an iodine-deficient state, whether by diet or drug therapy, animal breast tissue will show
signs of developing breast cancer. The longer the animals are maintained in an iodine-deficient state, the more likely their breast
tissue will become cancerous. 46
 
47
 Researchers have concluded, “It thus appears that maintenance of the optimum structure and
function of the breasts requires the presence of continuous and specific amounts of iodine.”
48
 The use of estrogens causes
worsening changes in the breast tissue, with additional signs of cancer being present upon examination of tissue. 49
 In fact, iodine
deficiency is found to enhance the response of animal breast tissue to estrogen injections. 50
 The 
epidemic of breast cancer we are
currently facing could be explained by the combination of iodine deficiency coupled with the increasing exposure to
xenoestrogens. Xenoestrogens are estrogen-like substances that can disrupt our own estrogen receptors. Examples of
xenoestrogens include environmental toxins such as bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates from plastics. We are exposed to
increasing amounts of synthetic hormones from estrogen-like hormones (i.e., xenoestrogens) fed to conventionally-raised animals. These synthetic hormones make their way into our food products. With one in seven women suffering with breast cancer and one
in three men having prostate cancer, things may look bleak. However, there is hope. Eating an organic diet free of food contaminated with synthetic hormones is a good start. The next
step is to reverse an iodine-deficient condition and maintain iodine sufficiency. Iodine deficiency disorders can easily be corrected with the addition of iodine to the diet. The correction of iodine deficiency
in animals results in changing their breast tissue to assume a more normal architecture. I have observed similar results in many of
my patients. Many other tissues in the body utilize iodine besides the thyroid gland and the breasts. The prostate gland, gastrointestinal
tract, salivary glands, bones, connective tissues, 
and the fluids of almost the entire body utilize iodine. These different tissues of the
body all have developed iodine-trapping mechanisms to effectively extract iodine from dietary sources. The breasts have anefficient method of acquiring iodine from the diet. 51
 The thyroid gland’s need for iodine will ensure that it has the “first pick” of
iodine which, in a deficient state, may mean that other tissues of the body can show signs of severe deficiencies. The iodization of salt was introduced solely to decrease the rate of goiter and mental retardation. It has decreased the
prevalence of goiter, but it has not been enough to affect the rate of breast disease. In fact, areas of the world with the lowest
iodine intakes have been found to have very high rates of breast cancer. In the United States, the area known as the “goiter belt”, which borders the Great Lakes, not only has one of the highest
mortality rates from breast cancer, it also has extremely low iodine levels in the soil. This would point to a direct relationship
between iodine levels and development of and mortality from breast cancer. When iodine is ingested or injected, there are two major areas of the body that take up iodine: the thyroid gland and the
extra-thyroidal tissue. Researchers have estimated that approximately 8mg of iodine is taken up by the extra-thyroidal tissue
(while 6mg is taken up by the thyroid). 52
 
53
 The breasts are 
one of the largest consumers of extra-thyroidal iodine. Estimates are
that the breasts need approximately 5mg of iodine per day in a 50kg (110lb) woman. 54
 
55
 
56
 A larger woman (or a woman with
larger breasts) would have a greater amount of iodine concentrated in the breasts. Since men have smaller breasts than women,
their iodine needs are lower. In a state of iodine deficiency, the body’s major storage of iodine occurs in the thyroid gland. When the body becomes iodine
sufficient, the thyroid gland will contain 50mg of iodine out of total body iodine of 1,500mg-2,000mg. 57
 
58
 At iodine sufficiency,
the largest amounts of iodine are found in fat tissue and muscle (striated) tissue. If obesity is present, the body’s need for iodine
increases as the fat cells of the body would require more iodine. As previously mentioned, women’s breasts are major sites for iodine storage. Maintaining adequate iodine levels are
necessary to ensure an adequately functioning thyroid gland and normal breast architecture. I believe it will also lower the
incidence of breast cancer and help women overcome breast cancer. It is well known that thyroid illnesses, including goiter and autoimmune thyroid disorders, strike women at much larger
percentages than they strike men. One reason may be that a woman, having more breast tissue than a man, requires a higher
iodine intake than a man. In an iodine-deficient state, a woman will show earlier signs and more severe signs of iodine deficiency
than a man in a similar deficient state. OTHER TISSUE REQUIREMENTS FOR IODINE
All of the glands of the body depend on adequate iodine levels to function optimally. Animal studies have shown problems
with the adrenal glands
59
, the thymus gland
60
, the ovaries
61
, the hypothalamus and pituitary axis
62
, as well as the entire endocrine
system, when there is an iodine-deficient state. In fact, the ovaries have the second highest concentration of iodine in the body
next to the thyroid gland. An iodine-deficient state will lead to an imbalanced hormonal system. It is impossible to have a
balanced hormonal system without ensuring an adequate iodine intake. Dr. Guy Abraham, one of the world’s leading researchers on iodine, has shown that the required daily intake of iodine
necessary for maintaining iodine sufficiency for the whole body is at least 13mg per day. 63
At sufficiency, the thyroid gland holds a total of approximately 50mg of iodine. The thyroid gland needs approximately
6mg/day of iodine for sufficiency. The breasts need at least 5mg of iodine; that leaves 2mg (13mg-11mg) of iodine for the rest of
the body. This 2mg is still well above–14x–the RDA of 150μg/day of iodine. Either way, this would explain 
why the RDA for
iodine is inadequate. To achieve and maintain your optimal health, it is necessary to get your iodine levels evaluated and to
supplement with the correct amount and form of iodine. FINAL THOUGHTS
The connection between iodine deficiency and breast cancer as well as fibrocystic breast disease is strong and recent
research is making this connection stronger. Breast cancer (like prostate cancer) is occurring at epidemic rates—currently one in
seven women are afflicted. Prostate cancer affects one in three men. Although there are numerous reasons for the development of
cancer, the research is clear; iodine deficiency is a major piece of the puzzle. Iodine deficiency has also been associated with
other cancers including ovarian, uterine, and thyroid cancer. Perhaps the reason we have made so little progress in our treatment
of nearly all of the hormone-sensitive cancers is that the underlying cause has been overlooked. This underlying cause could very
well be iodine deficiency. It is imperative to have your iodine level checked and supplemented with the correct form of iodine
when there is iodine deficiency identified. I feel iodine status should be investigated in all cancer patients. The best results with
iodine therapy occur when iodine supplementation is given as part of an anti-cancer program. 1
 Bretthauer, E. Milk transfer comparisons of different chemical forms of radioiodine. Health Physics. 1972.22:257
2
 Vitale, M. Iodide excess induces apoptosis in thyroid cells through a p53-independent mechanism involving oxidative stress. Endocrin. 141. 2000. 3
 Smyth, P. Role of iodine in antioxidant defense in thyroid and breast disease. Biofactors. 19. 2003
4
 Tseng, Y.L. Iodothyronines: Oxidative deiodination by hemoglobin and inhibition of lipid peroxidation. Lipds. 19. 1984
5
 Winkler, R. Effects of iodide on total antioxidant status of human serum. Cell Biochem. Funct. 18. 2000.6
 Cancer statistics, 2004. Cancerj. Clin. 2004; 54:8-29
7
 Lemon, H. Reduced estriol excretion in patients with breast cancer prior to endocrine therapy. JAMA. 196; 1128-1136. 1966. 8
 Wright, Jonathan. Presented at ACAM. November, 2005. Anaheim, CA. 9
 Personal communication with Dr. Wright and presented at ACAM, Fall, 2006. 10
 Int. J. of Med. Sci. 2008 5($): 189-96
11
 Eskin, B. Mammary gland dysplasia. JAMA. 200. 1967
 
12
 Aquino, T. Arch. Pathology. 94, 270
13
 Krouse, T. Proc. Amer. Ass. Ca. Res. 18, 1977
14
 Eskin, B. Iodine and Mammary Cancer. Adv. In Exp. Medicine and Biology. Vol. 91. 1977
15
 Eskin, B. IBID. 1977
16
 Biol. Tr. Elem. Res. 1995, 49; 9-19
17
 MolCell Endo. 2005, 236:49-57
18
 Slebodzinski, A.B. Ovarian iodide uptake and triiodothyronine generation in follicular fluid. The enigma of the thyroid
ovary interaction. Domest. Anim. Endocrinol. 29(1):97-103, July 2005
19
 Siiteri, P. Increased availability of serum estrogens in breast cancer, a new hypothesis. In Hormones and Breast Cancer. Banbury Report No. 8. Cold Spring Harbour Laboratories, 1981
20
 Eskin, B., et al. Iodine metabolism and breast cancer. Trans. New York, Acad.
Iodine_-_Why_You_Need_It_Why_You_Cant-Live_Without_It.txt
Summarize the following text section accurately and concisely. Maintain specific details and numerical information, and use anti-repetition mechanisms:

        In fact, in conventional medicine, there is rarely a search for an
underlying causative factor. If you don’t search for an underlying causative factor, then how can you formulate an effective
treatment plan. Radioactive iodine is the preferred method in conventional medicine for treating autoimmune thyroid disorders. 16
 In one of 
the
most respected books on thyroid problems, radioactive iodine is reported as “effective, safe, and relatively inexpensive”
17. Let’s
look at all three of these claims. IS RADIOACTIVE IODINE EFFECTIVE. If the goal of treating an autoimmune thyroid disorder is to destroy the thyroid gland, then yes, radioactive iodine is effective. It is well known that iodine is taken up by the thyroid gland. By using a radioactive form of iodine (I
131
), the theory is that
wherever the radioactive form of iodine binds, the radioactivity will destroy the surrounding cells. In the case of autoimmune
thyroid disorders, the binding of the radioactive iodine to the thyroid gland will result in the destruction of thyroid tissue by the
radioactive isotope. If the cause of autoimmune thyroid disorders is too much thyroid tissue that needs to be destroyed, then the use of radioactive
iodine could be considered effective. However, excess thyroid tissue is not the cause of autoimmune thyroid disorders; it is a
consequence of the illness. Radioactive iodine has never been considered a treatment which addresses the underlying cause of the illness. Radioactive
iodine is solely a palliative treatment for the hyperthyroid symptoms of autoimmune thyroid problems. I believe there are more
effective ways to treat autoimmune thyroid illnesses using natural items, which will be covered below. IS RADIOACTIVE IODINE SAFE. Not only will radioactive iodine bind to the thyroid gland destroying thyroid cells, it will also bind to other sites in the body
besides the thyroid gland. It was established in 
Chapter 1
 that iodine is present in all of the cells of the body. Radioactive iodine
will be concentrated where iodine accumulates in the body, including the breasts in women. With breast cancer at epidemic rates–
affecting one in seven women–I don’t believe a therapy should be used that may potentially increase this rate. Researchers have reported a 400% increased incidence of death from thyroid cancer due to radioactive iodine. 18
Furthermore, a nine year study of 2,793 patients who received radioactive iodine found:
19
1. 56% increase in mortality
2. 40% increased risk of stroke
3. 29% increased risk in mortality from cancer of any sort
To be fair, there are other articles pointing out no increased risk of illness after radioactive iodine therapy. However, common
sense would dictate extreme caution with 
using radioactive iodine. I feel radioactive iodine therapy should be the last choice in
any thyroid treatment program. RADIOACTIVE IODINE: IS IT INEXPENSIVE. The cost of radioactive iodine is approximately $3,000-$5,000. Radioactive iodine is an expensive procedure that does not
address the underlying cause of the illness. There are much better alternatives than radioactive iodine. SEARCHING FOR AN UNDERLYING CAUSE OF AUTOIMMUNE THYROID PROBLEMS
In order to formulate an effective, safe, and inexpensive treatment for autoimmune thyroid problems, one must first search for
an underlying cause of the illness. As I discussed in my book, 
Overcoming Thyroid Disorders, 3
rd
 Edition
, the underlying
cause of autoimmune thyroid disorders can be varied. This can include infections, toxicities, food allergies (e. g. , glutenintolerance), and nutritional imbalances. I believe that iodine deficiency is a causative risk factor in developing an autoimmune
thyroid problem. Tracy, 40-years-old, was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s disease ten years ago after the birth of her son. Her TSH
elevated to 150mIU/l (normal 0. 2-4. 7mIU/l) and she felt miserable. “I could not think clearly. I felt like my brain was in
a fog. I would go to the store and not know why I was there. I was also extremely fatigued”, she said. She had symptoms
of hyperthyroid and 
hypothyroid problems. “Sometimes my heart would start racing for no apparent reason. I was
irritable and moody. I couldn’t work out because I felt so poorly,” she claimed. Tracy was placed on Synthroid
®
, but felt
no better. Although her laboratory tests improved and her TSH became normal, none of her symptoms improved. When I
began treating Tracy, I found, through blood testing, that she was suffering from gluten sensitivity. I placed her on a
gluten-free diet that alleviated many of her symptoms. She was also given nutritional supplements to correct many
vitamin and mineral imbalances. Tracy’s thyroid medication was changed to a more natural thyroid prescription–Nature-
Throid
®
 and she improved. “I felt much better. I could think more clearly. Most importantly, my energy came back,” she
said. When I investigated her iodine status, Tracy was found to be markedly iodine deficient. With the use of a
combination of iodine/iodide, she further improved. Tracy claimed, “When I started taking iodine, my energy improved. I
was sleeping better and dreaming better. I started to lift weights and build muscle which I haven’t been able to do in a
long time. I cannot believe the positive changes that I have seen with the iodine. ” Tracy’s iodine levels have improved
with using a combination of iodine/iodide and she continues to supplement today. Marlene, a 45-year-old advertising executive, was diagnosed with Graves’ disease one year ago. “I woke up one
morning and my heart was beating very fast and I felt like I was on too much caffeine,” she said. Marlene went to her
physician who diagnosed her with Graves’ disease. “I asked him what caused it, and he couldn’t answer me. When he
told me he wanted to treat me with radioactive iodine, I questioned him. I wasn’t satisfied with his answers and I began
to look at the alternatives,” she said. Marlene was diagnosed with iodine deficiency (24% excretion on an iodine loading
test—normal levels >90%). She was also found to have multiple nutritional deficiencies and elevated mercury levels. I
treated Marlene with 50 mg of iodine (Iodoral
®
) per day as well as vitamins and minerals. In addition, a mercury
detoxification plan was implemented. Furthermore, Marlene improved her diet, eliminating refined carbohydrates and
drinking more water. After four weeks on this therapy, she noticed a dramatic improvement in her symptoms. “I was
thrilled. All of the hyperthyroid symptoms resolved. I began to feel much better and even my energy level went up. People
began asking me what I was doing, since they thought I looked so much better,” she said. Marlene’s case is not unique. Graves’ disease can be treated effectively with a comprehensive holistic program. My initial study on the iodine status of 24 patients (see 
Chapter 2
) showed that 92% of those with Hashimoto’s and Graves’
disease also had iodine deficiency. Nearly every one of these patients had dramatic improvements in their symptoms 
with the use
of a combination of iodine/iodide to replace the body’s deficit. Rarely do I see a negative side effect from the use of iodine and
side effects are easily rectified with adjusting the dosage. Keep in mind I am using iodine as part of a holistic treatment regimen
that includes unrefined salt. As mentioned previously, inorganic, non-radioactive iodine (such as Lugol’s or tableted Lugol’s) has been used to treat
autoimmune thyroid problems for over 100 years. There are numerous reports in the literature citing the beneficial effects of
iodine. In fact, iodine has been shown to reduce the hyperplasia and hypervascularity characteristic of Graves’ disease. 20
 In cases
of hyperthyroidism, milligram doses of iodine/iodide were used effectively prior to thyroid surgery to decrease thyroid hormone
blood levels and prevent thyroid storm–a complication of thyroid surgery. There is a concern that the use of iodine in an autoimmune thyroid patient can exacerbate the symptoms of thyroid toxicosis. Sometimes this claim is made when the TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) test elevates shortly after starting iodine therapy. As
previously mentioned, after beginning iodine therapy in an iodine-deficient patient, it is expected that the TSH level will elevate. How can I make that statement. Understanding the biochemistry and physiology of the thyroid gland allows me to make that
statement. The laboratory reference range for TSH is 
from 0. 4-4. 5mIU/L. An elevated TSH–in the range of 5-20mIU/L–with
normal thyroid hormone, T4 and T3, along with a normal physical exam and history does not indicate a hypothyroid condition. Rather, it is a normal and expected response from the body to iodine supplementation. In the majority of patients, the TSH level
may remain elevated for three to six months, before lowering into the reference range. The lowering of TSH indicates the body’s
iodine stores are increasing. More information about this mechanism can be found in the next chapter. FINAL THOUGHTS
I believe all individuals with a thyroid problem should have their iodine levels checked. If iodine levels are suboptimal, iodine
replacement with the correct form of iodine should be instituted. However, it is important to make sure that the patient does not
have an autonomous functioning thyroid nodule. Luckily, this condition is rare. My experience has clearly shown that, for the vast majority of patients, the appropriate use of iodine in treating thyroid
disorders, from hypothyroidism to Graves’ and Hashimoto’s disease, is not only safe, but effective and inexpensive. This is a
holistic way to search for and treat an underlying cause of thyroid problems with a safe and natural agent. But, most importantly,people improve their condition without experiencing any serious adverse effects. My clinical experience has shown that when iodine is added to a hypothyroid patient’s regimen, it may become necessary to
adjust their thyroid dosage. Approximately one-third of patients being treated for hypothyroidism will need to lower their dose of
thyroid hormone when an iodine-deficient disorder is corrected. The other two-thirds of the people taking thyroid hormone can
usually maintain their dosage. Also, patients with Graves’ and Hashimoto’s disease may have to adjust their thyroid medications. Iodine replacement is not the only therapy for thyroid illness. Nutritional supplementation, detoxification, drinking adequate
amounts of water and dietary changes can also improve these conditions. For more information on a comprehensive holistic plan
to treat thyroid disorders, I refer the reader to my book, 
Overcoming Thyroid Disorders, 3
rd
 Edition. 1
 Second National Report on Biochemical Indicators of Diet and Nutrition in the U. S. Population. http://www. cdc. gov/nutritionreport/pdf/Nutrition_Book_complete508_final. pdf#zoom=100. Accessed 7. 4. 13
2
 Thyroid. Vol. 23. N. 8. 2013. DOI: 10. 1089/thy.
Radioactive iodine is the primary method of treatment for autoimmune thyroid disorders in conventional medicine.
What is the primary method of treatment for autoimmune thyroid disorders in conventional medicine?
The text mentions a 56% increase in mortality, a 40% increased risk of stroke, and a 29% increased risk of cancer.
What are some of the potential risks associated with using radioactive iodine therapy?
Radioactive iodine therapy costs approximately $3,000-$5,000.
How much does radioactive iodine therapy typically cost?
The RDA for selenium is not specified in the provided text.
What is the recommended daily allowance (RDA) for selenium?
The recommended daily intake of iodine is not specified in the provided text, but it is mentioned that iodine deficiency is a major risk factor in developing autoimmune thyroid disorders and other cancers.
What is the recommended daily intake of iodine for optimal health?