9. Disrupted Sleep Patterns: The Sleep-Iodine Connection
Ever thought there might be a link between iodine and your sleep patterns? Iodine deficiency can indeed disrupt your sleep, leading to insomnia or other sleep disorders. Given the importance of sleep for overall health, it’s an effect we can’t afford to overlook.
Firstly, let’s consider how iodine deficiency affects our sleep. The thyroid hormones, which require iodine for their production, play a role in regulating our sleep patterns. With iodine deficiency leading to lower levels of these hormones, our sleep might take a hit.
One manifestation is insomnia, where you might find it hard to fall asleep or stay asleep. This issue can be exasperating, leading to sleepless nights and groggy days. The impact on your mood, productivity, and overall health can be considerable.
In contrast, you might find yourself oversleeping. This excessive sleepiness, also known as hypersomnia, can be just as problematic. It might feel like you’re always tired, needing more sleep despite getting the recommended hours. (9)
