Find out when there is the most iodine in the air by the sea and what health benefits a trip planned in these months can bring.
Iodine, symbolized as I in the periodic table of elements, is a trace element essential for the proper functioning of the human body. The largest amount accumulates in the thyroid gland. Trace amounts are also present in skeletal muscles, the stomach lining, and salivary glands. In women, it is found in the ovaries and mammary glands.
It is essential in the process of synthesizing the thyroid hormone - thyroxine and its active form called triiodothyronine.
A worldwide rich source of iodine is Chilean nitrate deposits, where iodine occurs in the form of calcium iodate.
In Poland, brines from the Skoczów area and especially the Baltic Sea are characterized by a high iodine content. In seawater, iodine exists as inorganic ions and occurs:
Iodine is present in all seas and oceans, so its beneficial properties can be enjoyed at any of these bodies of water. However, the concentration in the air over specific seas varies depending on climate and geographical conditions: seas with cooler climates, such as the Baltic and the North Sea, are distinguished by higher levels of iodine in the atmosphere. This results from slower water evaporation in these regions, and stronger winds and higher waves lifting more iodine and other minerals like bromine, calcium, and magnesium, creating a healing sea aerosol.
On the other hand, over warm seas such as the Mediterranean or the Black Sea, faster evaporation causes less iodine to enter the air. Although its beneficial properties can also be enjoyed in these regions, the concentration in the air is lower. Winds and waves play a key role here – over the Baltic Sea, especially in the winter months, autumn and early spring, it is the highest.
Yes, iodine is present in every sea and ocean, but its concentration in the air depends on the climate and weather conditions. Over cooler seas, such as the Baltic Sea or the North Sea, higher concentrations of iodine in the air can be expected. This results from slower water evaporation and frequent strong winds that lift droplets of sea water rich in iodine, creating a healing sea aerosol. Thanks to this, iodine over the Baltic Sea is more accessible, especially on windy days when waves break on the shore. These conditions are typical especially in late autumn, winter, and early spring, which makes the iodine concentration in the air the highest during these times.
Conversely, over warmer seas like the Mediterranean or the Black Sea, higher temperatures cause faster water evaporation, limiting the amount of iodine entering the air. Although iodine is present above every sea, its concentration there is lower. Over the Baltic Sea, the highest iodine concentration is found along the shore, especially within 300 meters from the shoreline. Being in these areas can have a beneficial effect on health, especially during the colder months.
Iodine by the sea is present throughout the year, but the concentration changes depending on the season and atmospheric conditions. Over the Baltic Sea, there is the most iodine in the air between November and March, when strong winds blow, and waves hit the shore hard. Particularly during storms, you can expect the highest iodine concentration in the air. In the warm months like July and August, the level is lower due to calmer weather and less wave activity.
For those seeking natural ways to strengthen health and the immune system, a trip to the Baltic Sea off-season, when iodine concentration in the air is the highest, is an excellent solution. Moreover, iodine by the sea not only supports thyroid function but also benefits the respiratory tract, especially during beach walks in windy periods.
The highest iodine concentration by the Polish sea is, of course, right by the shore, at a maximum distance from the water line of up to 300 m. A stay by the sea is highly recommended to replenish this element in the body. However, inhaling iodine from the sea is not always effective. Mainly due to the fact that the level of this element varies depending on the season. So when is there the most iodine by the sea?
Undoubtedly, the largest amounts of iodine enter the air during strong winds. Therefore, the best seasons favoring iodine absorption are autumn, winter, and spring. Conversely, the maximum iodine amounts in the air occur between November and March. Unfortunately, the smallest amounts of this element occur during the summer. Therefore, long therapeutic walks are mainly recommended in winter.
We would like to say that it does not matter, but it is not entirely so. Iodine concentration varies in different places, but these values fluctuate over time depending on weather and there is a lack of reliable measurements. Therefore, any place close to the shoreline, up to 300 meters from the sea shore, will be good! It is worth adding that the Gwiazda Morza resort is located 120 meters from the beach, so you can enjoy better air comfort from your own room.
Iodine over the Baltic Sea floats in the inhaled sea breeze. It contains tiny water droplets that penetrate the sea air when sea waves splash. As a result, an aerosol with many healing properties forms in the air. Besides large doses of iodine, the sea breeze also contains bromine, magnesium, calcium, and salt crystals.
However, this does not mean that iodine can only be supplied to the human body by inhalation. People staying by the sea during vacations supply their bodies with large doses of iodine through bathing in seawater, as iodine is also very well absorbed through the skin.
Additionally, iodine can be found in vegetables and fruits grown near the sea. These include spinach, broccoli, carrots, as well as garlic, strawberries, and cranberries. Nuts, especially Brazil nuts, and herbs such as thyme and sea herbs, can also be a good source of iodine in the diet. Furthermore, using iodized salt in cooking is a simple way to supplement its level (although salt consumption should be limited to avoid negative health effects).
There are many natural ways to supply iodine to the body, both during a stay by the Baltic Sea and through an appropriate diet:
Iodine plays a key role in the proper functioning of the thyroid because it is essential for synthesizing hormones – thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These are responsible for regulating many metabolic processes in the body, such as metabolism, body temperature, and energy production. Iodine is also important for the growth and development of cells and tissues, making it especially important during the prenatal period when it affects fetal brain development. Iodine deficiency can lead to thyroid disorders such as endemic goiter, which is enlargement of the thyroid gland due to compensatory growth.
Iodine is essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system. Thyroid hormones produced with the participation of iodine affect brain development and cognitive abilities such as memory, concentration, and thinking processes. Iodine deficiency at key developmental moments, especially during prenatal and early childhood periods, can lead to intellectual development delays and in extreme cases to cretinism. Iodine is also important for the brain's adaptive abilities and regeneration, which is significant for adults and the elderly.
Iodine plays a key role in regulating metabolic processes, which include energy transformations, metabolism of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Thyroid hormones, thanks to the presence of iodine, affect metabolism rate, directly influencing the amount of energy produced. Iodine is also necessary for cellular respiration, which is the production of energy in the body's cells. Iodine deficiency can cause a decrease in metabolism rate, leading to fatigue, weakness, weight gain, and reduced energy.
Iodine deficiency can lead to many serious health problems. The most common consequence is thyroid enlargement (goiter), but it can also lead to metabolic disorders, nervous system problems, and hormonal disorders such as irregular menstruation or fertility difficulties. In pregnant women, iodine deficiency may increase the risk of miscarriage, premature birth, and fetal developmental disorders. In children, iodine deficiency can cause delays in mental development and learning difficulties. Therefore, regular iodine intake is essential to maintaining health and the proper functioning of the body.
In summary, a longer stay by the Polish sea can be regarded as therapeutic or preventive treatment aimed at replenishing the deficiency of this invaluable element for the thyroid.
In conclusion, it is not possible to indicate a specific town due to the lack of measurements. But any place close to the shoreline will be a good choice!
Yes, February is a fantastic month to go to the sea. Especially for children, who have winter break during this time. The most iodine in the air is found from November to March.
Iodine is an essential ingredient for proper thyroid function and supports the production of thyroid hormones. Moreover, it is essential for proper metabolism functioning and necessary during growth periods. For this reason, pregnant women and children need more of it! Iodine is also associated with reducing inflammation in the lungs and allergic reactions.
Pure health benefits! Thanks to the presence of iodine in the air, just after a 45-minute walk by the sea, the amount of this element in our body increases. This affects overall well-being and better mood. Iodine is associated with increased energy and concentration. It is precisely because of this element that we feel so good!
Chronic iodine deficiency may be associated with thyroid problems, which in turn can cause weight gain. Other symptoms include fatigue, irritability, lack of energy, or feeling cold.
Yes, if you are already struggling with hypothyroidism, it is worth monitoring iodine levels and supplementing this element. An annual visit to the Baltic Sea can be one of the solutions!
Iodine reaches our body in several ways:
Iodine absorption from inhaled air or through the skin is quite effective. Disruptions occur when consuming iodine-rich products (iodized salt, sea fish, seafood) together with cruciferous vegetables (cabbages, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, broccoli).
If you plan a winter stay by the sea, take advantage of our winter special offers, such as “Winter Break by the Sea” or “Family Winter by the Sea” – both offers provide free stays for children up to 14 years old.
