I have hypothyroidism – will iodine supplements help me lose weight?

Iodine is crucial for proper thyroid function and metabolism, so this is an important supplement to take when you are trying to lose weight. Though you can get iodine from seafood and iodised salt, it is difficult to get an optimal level from food. Iodine is naturally available in sea vegetables, seaweed, fish. Your thyroid uses iodine to make thyroid hormones. If you don’t have enough, you don’t make enough hormone, resulting in hypothyroid symptoms. Iodine is added to factory-made foods such as breads, packaged foods, dairy and table salt. But if you are on an anti-inflammatory diet, you won’t be getting iodine through these sources. That definitely doesn’t mean you should start eating these foods. You can get a well-sourced supplement iodine if you have a deficiency and keep eating real food. Iodine supplementation is just the tip of the iceberg – it is imperative to avoid gluten, dairy, sugar and other inflammatory foods, and include wholesome healing foods with the right type and quantity of fat for better hormone production.

Is it safe to consume turmeric-based milk on a daily basis? Can you explain the benefits of turmeric?

Turmeric is a natural wonder; it is one of the most powerful natural anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and antiseptic herbs available. Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, has a wide range of therapeutic effects. Turmeric is also rich in manganese, iron, vitamin B6, calcium, phosphorus, potassium and fibres. Nutritionists prescribe turmeric in conditions such as arthritis, jaundice, menstrual difficulties, toothache, bruises, chest pain, inflammatory bowel disease, jaundice, diabetes etc. Turmeric exhibits a protective effect on the liver, anti-tumour action, and has the ability to reduce inflammation and fight certain infections. Curcumin inhibits growth and spread of some forms of cancer, including prostate, breast, skin and colon. Turmeric can be included in food for daily intake; recommended dose is one to three grams dry powder per day. However, excessive use of curcumin may produce stomach upset in certain cases. Take special precautions during pregnancy, gall bladder problems, gastroesophageal reflux disease, before and after a surgical procedure and while taking anti-coagulant medicines.