Chlorine in water can compete with iodine in the body, and this competition occurs because both chlorine and iodine belong to the halogen group on the periodic table, along with fluorine and bromine.

Here’s why:

1. Halogen Similarity

• Chlorine and iodine are chemically similar, as they are both halogens. This similarity allows them to interact with the same receptors and biochemical pathways in the body.
• The thyroid gland relies on iodine to produce thyroid hormones (T3 and T4), and if chlorine is present, it can interfere with iodine’s uptake and utilization.

2. Competitive Binding

• Chlorine can bind to the sodium-iodide symporter (NIS) in thyroid cells, which is the same transporter that moves iodine into the thyroid gland.
• If chlorine or other halogens outcompete iodine, this can lead to a reduced iodine supply for hormone production, potentially contributing to thyroid dysfunction.

3. Thyroid Hormone Production and Chlorinated Water

• Long-term exposure to chlorinated water may reduce iodine availability for the thyroid, leading to symptoms of iodine deficiency, such as goiter, hypothyroidism, or suboptimal metabolism.
• Additionally, chlorine in water may also combine with organic matter to form disinfection by-products (DBPs), which could further affect thyroid health and overall endocrine function.

4. Supporting Evidence

• Research has shown that halogen exposure (including chlorine, bromine, and fluorine) can disrupt endocrine functions, particularly by interfering with iodine metabolism.
• A lack of sufficient iodine in the presence of competing halogens may worsen iodine deficiency in populations with low dietary iodine intake.

How to Mitigate This Competition

1. Iodine Supplementation:
• Ensure adequate iodine intake through foods like seaweed, Sea salt, Himalayan salt, or supplements.

Note: Be cautious with seaweed processed using seed oil, as it may cause inflammation. I recommend using olive oil and avocado oil instead. Ensure that Himalayan salt originates from Pakistan. For additional supplement suggestions, please comment below.

2. Water Filtration:
• Use water filters designed to reduce chlorine content, such as activated carbon filters, to minimize exposure. Install a chlorine water filter on your showerhead.

3. Avoid Excessive Halogen Exposure:
• Limit exposure to other halogens like fluorine (from toothpaste) and bromine (in some baked goods or pools).