Iodine's primary role is to support a healthy thyroid gland by activating the production of thyroxine, a hormone that is needed throughout the body for energy production. About 50 to 60 percent of the body's Iodine is stored in the thyroid gland, the rest is distributed throughout the body, especially in ovaries, breast and prostate tissue, muscles, and blood. Women require higher Iodine amounts during periods of puberty and pregnancy. Iodine plays an important role in many of the body's functions. It helps to support: Thyroid hormones, which control proper body metabolism that can influence energy production and body temperature  Thyroid function, which influences the adrenal glands Healthy reproductive function Nerve and muscle function Cellular oxygen use Healthy hair, skin, and bones The breakdown of fats and proteins