Up Your Iodine

Back in the early days of bodybuilding there were no fat burners to facilitate the ripping process. Those who were looking for cuts relied on low-carb diets and a specific trace mineral that improves thyroid function: iodine.

Physical culturists of yesteryear relied on seaweed to up their iodine. Today you can get it in pill form, but it can do more than just boost your fat-loss efforts. It also has anti-inflammatory benefits and has been shown to be especially helpful for asthmatics. Plus, it’s been shown to improve blood sugar utilization, which can enhance fat loss.

Of course, bodybuilders looking to get ripped will want an optimal iodine presence in their bodies to keep thyroid hormones at peak and keep the metabolism high to burn off carbs and bodyfat. About 150 micrograms a day is a good dose for dieting bodybuilders.

Selenium, another trace mineral, is also involved in the production of thyroid hormones, and it can work synergistically with iodine. Try 200 micrograms of selenium per day.

Research suggests that eating a lot of cruciferous vegetables, like broccoli and cauliflower, and/or soy can inhibit iodine absorption. If you’re dieting, your iodine intake is no doubt low, so moderate supplementation may help keep your metabolism in the ripping zone.

—Becky Holman
www.X-remeLean.com