Iodine’s effect on the hormone oestrogen could explain its link to breast conditions like cysts. — 123rf
While many of us might be familiar with iodine’s association with our thyroid, it might surprise you to know that this essential mineral also has an effect on the female hormone oestrogen.
Research has shown that this latter association could potentially help with breast health, including breast cysts.
One of the primary functions of iodine is its role in hormone production.
Hormones are essential molecules the body uses to communicate information between different parts of our body.
These include messages that control metabolism and growth, among various other functions.
The thyroid gland requires iodine to synthesise hormones such as thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3).
These hormones are vital for regulating metabolism, growth and development.
Additionally, they play a significant role in maintaining the balance of other hormones in the body, including those involved in breast health.
Breast cysts are a type of fluid-filled sac that women may experience more commonly during their childbearing years due to hormonal changes and which may cause discomfort.
Research shows that iodine could actually prevent some of these cysts from forming.
It is noteworthy that cysts are considered “holding tanks” created by the body to isolate and contain toxic fluids and waste materials.
This idea parallels the Ayurvedic concept, which suggests that when toxic metabolic byproducts are not eliminated promptly, they mix with, and disrupt, normal, healthy tissue, contributing to disease processes.
Protecting the breast
Iodine can help promote hormonal balance as it facilitates the regulation of oestrogen.
When the ovaries produce excess oestrogen, particularly oestradiol, a person could be at risk of developing breast cysts, as well as breast cancer.
The hormonal balance that iodine offers could help reduce this risk.
Hormonal equilibrium is of importance for not just breast health, but also overall health.
Supplementation of iodine also reduces fibrocystic changes.
In several case studies, iodine solutions such as Lugol’s iodine, reduced the discomfort linked to the development of breast cysts and had some effect on reducing the size of the breast cysts when taken regularly for no less then six months.
These cases were all women of mature fertility age reporting tenderness and/or lumpiness in their breasts.
Lugol’s iodine is a solution of potassium iodide with added elemental iodine.
It was created in the first half of the 19th century by French physician Dr Jean Lugol.
It is a natural antiseptic, used in hospitals and by healthcare professionals for over 50 years.
In fact, older readers might remember having a solution applied on wounds that resulted in a yellow stain – that solution is Lugol’s iodine.
Several studies have shown that Lugol’s iodine, and a combination of iodide and iodine, may be potent agents for use in the development of anti-tumour strategies in various cancers, including breast cancer.
The protective effects of iodine on breast cancer have been suggested based on epidemiological data and demonstrated in animal studies.
Although the precise molecular mechanisms are not fully understood, laboratory research such as that conducted by the late American obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Bernard Eskin, indicates that iodine may exert its cancer-inhibiting effects by modulating the oestrogen- signalling pathway.
In addition, iodine has detoxification properties.
Through its intake, iodine reduces harmful substances and toxins from the body, which may otherwise contribute to breast cyst formation, or even breast cancer.
As an antioxidant, iodine reduces the rate of oxidative stress that leads to cancer growth; by opposing free radicals in the body, iodine helps reduce the risk of breast cancer.
Addressing iodine deficiency
Due to significant iodine deficiency among primary school children, the government had mandated that salt sold in Malaysia must contain sufficient added iodine since September 2020. — Photos.comIodine deficiency can lead to a range of health issues, including:
- Goiter (enlarged thyroid)
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Cold intolerance
- Dry skin
- Hair loss.
For women, iodine deficiency may also manifest as irregular menstrual cycles or worsening symptoms of fibrocystic breast changes.
To effectively counteract the deficiency, a complete diet rich in iodine is essential.
Notable sources of iodine include:
- Sea vegetables (e.g. nori and kelp)
- Fish and shellfish
- Dairy products
- Eggs
- Iodised salt.
Nonetheless, ensuring sufficient iodine intake via the diet can be challenging in regions that have low levels of this mineral present due to poor soil health.
Iodine supplementation with Lugol’s iodine may be helpful for those not receiving enough in their diet, either via food or other supplements.
It is crucial to only use Lugol’s iodine if prescribed by a healthcare professional, as it can cause serious side effects.
Doses are usually tailored to each patient, so stick closely to the recommendations of your doctor as overdosing needs be avoided.
While Lugol’s iodine is typically used orally for more systemic effects, it can also be applied topically.
When applied to areas of cyst formation on the breast, the dose is typically one drop each day on alternate breasts.
It is also important for people using iodine supplements to monitor their thyroid function.
Maintaining breast health
In addition to the sufficient intake of iodine, other lifestyle habits also play a significant role in breast health:
- Nutritious diet – a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, healthy fats (namely, omega-3 fatty acids and monosaturated fats) and lean proteins helps to maintain hormonal balance.
- Regular exercise – consistent physical activity balances your body’s hormone levels and may decrease the likelihood of breast cancer.
- Stress management – chronic stress will disrupt our hormonal balance, so finding a way to reduce it in your life (e.g. through yoga or meditation) can help.
- Regular screening – breast self-examinations and professional screenings (e.g. mammograms) are both necessary for the early detection of any abnormalities that may arise.
Datuk Dr Nor Ashikin Mokhtar is a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, and a functional medicine practitioner. For further information, email starhealth@thestar.com.my. The information provided is for educational and communication purposes only, and it should not be construed as personal medical advice. Information published in this article is not intended to replace, supplant or augment a consultation with a health professional regarding the reader’s own medical care. The Star does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in this column. The Star disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information.
