Symptom 9: Depression and Anxiety – Not Just Feeling Blue
We all have those days when we’re feeling a bit low or anxious about something. But what if this feeling doesn’t go away? What if that nagging sadness or constant state of worry is trying to tell you something? Here, we’ll delve into how an iodine deficiency might just be the unsuspected player in these emotional upheavals.
First off, let’s talk about the significance of thyroid hormones in our mood regulation. These hormones, which are partially composed of iodine, play an essential role in the brain’s function. When the thyroid is firing on all cylinders, it contributes to a stable and positive mood.
Now, let’s throw iodine deficiency into the mix. The scarcity of iodine throttles the production of thyroid hormones. With less of these hormones in circulation, things start going haywire in the brain. You might start feeling down in the dumps more often than not, and things that used to bring joy might not cut it anymore.
It’s not just sadness, though. Anxiety can be another invader in this scenario. That feeling of butterflies in your stomach can turn into a whole aviary of fluttering anxiety. Your mind races, you can’t sit still, and worry becomes your unwanted companion. Like a pot left simmering too long, your anxiety starts boiling over. (9)
