Bromine
The iodine impersonator. Bromine is a halogen that can occupy iodine receptors in the body, blocking iodine's essential functions. It's found in brominated vegetable oil (soft drinks), potassium bromate (bread), flame retardants, and pesticides. Reducing bromine exposure while increasing iodine helps restore balance.
Sources of Bromine Exposure
Potassium Bromate
Bread conditioner. Banned in EU, still allowed in US. Check labels.
Brominated Vegetable Oil
In some citrus soft drinks. Mountain Dew, some sports drinks. Check ingredients.
Flame Retardants
PBDEs in furniture, electronics, mattresses. Off-gas into air. Accumulate in body.
Pesticides
Methyl bromide fumigant. Used on strawberries, tomatoes. Residues on food.
Hot Tubs & Pools
Bromine used as sanitizer alternative to chlorine. Absorbed through skin.
Medications
Some asthma inhalers contain bromine compounds. Check ingredients.
Health Effects
Thyroid Disruption
Competes with iodine at thyroid. Blocks hormone synthesis. Hypothyroid effects.
Breast Tissue
Breast tissue also needs iodine. Bromine displacement may affect breast health.
Neurological
Bromism—cognitive issues, memory problems, headaches from excess exposure.
Skin Issues
Bromide acne, skin eruptions. Can occur when detoxing bromine.
Reducing Exposure & Supporting Detox
Avoid Bromated Flour
Look for "unbromated" flour. Many bakeries now avoid it. Read labels.
Skip BVO Drinks
Check citrus sodas and sports drinks. Choose alternatives without BVO.
Address Flame Retardants
Vacuum frequently. HEPA filter. Wash hands. Consider FR-free products.
Optimize Iodine
Adequate iodine helps displace bromine. Sea vegetables, iodized salt.
Salt Loading
Chloride from salt helps excrete bromide via kidneys. Support during iodine loading.
Selenium
Supports thyroid during halogen transitions. Protective during iodine supplementation.