A doctor has revealed several 'strange' signs that could indicate you have an iodine deficiency. According to the NHS, "Iodine helps make thyroid hormones, which help keep cells and the metabolic rate (the speed at which chemical reactions take place in the body) healthy."

Sources of iodine include cows' milk and dairy products, eggs, sea fish, and shellfish. Thankfully, the NHS says most people should be able to meet their daily requirements by eating a balanced and varied diet. However, not everyone will.

The NHS explained: "If you are following a strict vegan diet and do not eat any fish, eggs, cows' milk or other dairy products, then you may want to consider foods fortified with iodine or consider taking an iodine supplement."

While taking too much iodine could also be harmful, taking 0.5mg or less a day is unlikely to cause any harm, the NHS says. If you are deficient in iodine, you may notice some 'strange' signs.

Dr Eric Berg DC, who specialises in healthy ketosis and intermittent fasting, told his 13 million YouTube subscribers of the warnings signs, and said some can be 'strange'. He said: "Iodine is vital for the health of your thyroid, which impacts almost every part of your body.

"Unfortunately, iodine deficiency has become increasingly common due to depleted soils and chemicals in the water supply." In his video titled, '7 Warning Signs of a Dangerous Nutrient Deficiency', Dr Berg set out several 'strange' signs, which included eyebrow thinning and an enlarged tongue.

Seven signs the expert said to look out for:

• Outer eyebrow thinning
• Hair loss
• Hoarseness
• Enlarged tongue
• Unexplained weight gain
• Increased estrogen
• Lowered IQ

If you have any of these symptoms, it does not mean you necessarily have an iodine deficiency, but it is best to get yourself checked in case to find out the root cause. 

According to Dr Berg, if you do have a deficiency though, you could notice hair loss or thinning on the outer third of your eyebrow. Similarly, if you feel like you have a lump in your throat, experience unexplained weight gain, or notice indentations on the outside of your tongue, these could also be signs. On a related note, weight gain in the hips, headaches, heavy periods and excessive cramping could indicate increased estrogen, said Dr Berg.

Some people could also experience a lowered IQ because thyroid function is linked with cognitive function due to its connection to the part of the brain responsible for memory, focus, and problem-solving. Dr Berg suggested this is the most important sign to look out for, explaining that it can affect adults at any age.

Dr Berg concluded: "Iodine is vital for properly functioning thyroid hormones, which affect every part of the body. Thyroid hormones affect the ovaries and the testicles, regulate estrogen dominance, and help mood and cognitive function. Hypothyroidism is one of the most common health problems worldwide. Selenium is also essential for the thyroid, especially for conditions like Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism."

As Dr Berg's YouTube channel makes clear, his content is shared for general informational purposes, not as a self-diagnostic tool. Speak to your GP if you have any concerns about your health.