Iodine: The Essential Trace Element for a Healthy Thyroid and More!"
Iodine is a trace element that is essential for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland. There are several reasons why iodine is important for your body. First, it helps to regulate your metabolism, which affects your energy level and overall health. Second, it plays a vital role in the development of the brain and nervous system, particularly during pregnancy and infancy. Finally, it helps to maintain healthy skin, hair, and nails.
Why is Iodine essential for our body?
Thyroid
The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate the body’s metabolism, growth, and development. Without adequate iodine, the thyroid gland can become enlarged, leading to a condition known as goiter.
Hormones
Iodine is particularly important during pregnancy, as it supports fetal brain development and helps prevent intellectual disability. In fact, the World Health Organization recommends that pregnant women consume at least 250 micrograms of iodine per day.
Metabolism
It is essential for the production of thyroid hormones, which regulate the metabolism of every cell in the body. Iodine is required for the synthesis of thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which are crucial for proper growth and development of the body, especially the brain.
Hormones
Without adequate iodine intake, the thyroid gland cannot produce enough T4 and T3. This can result in a range of health issues, including goiter, hypothyroidism, and developmental delays in children.
Physical Development
Particularly important for the development of the fetus, as it plays a critical role in the formation of the brain and central nervous system. Inadequate iodine intake during pregnancy can result in mental retardation or irreversible brain damage in the child.
Mental Development
Iodine benefits our coordination is by supporting the formation of myelin, a fatty substance that covers and insulates nerve fibers. This helps to improve the transmission of signals between our brain and muscles, enabling us to perform complex movements with greater ease and efficiency. Also contributes to the development of our senses, including vision, hearing, smell, taste, and touch.
Symptoms of Iodine deficiency/ Toxicity
Nausea & vomiting
If you’ve ingested a large dose of iodine, you may experience nausea and vomiting within minutes to hours.
Weakness and tremors
Excessive iodine can cause muscle weakness and tremors, making it difficult to perform routine daily tasks.
Taste
Iodine toxicity causes swollen salivary glands and a metallic taste in the mouth. Sores in the mouth and throat can also occur.
Diarrhea
High amounts of iodine can cause gastrointestinal disarray, leading to diarrhea.
Rash
Skin rash is a rare symptom of , but when it does show up, it can be itchy and uncomfortable.
Pre-NAtal
Maternal thyroid hormone deficiencies during pregnancy have been linked to neurological and neurocognitive impairments in newborns, with symptoms ranging from reduced intelligence, sluggishness, and even mental disability.
Needed for Assimilation
Interaction
Certain foods when eaten raw and in large amount, block uptake of iodine. If you have an under active thyroid, you should consider limiting these foods.
Brussel Sprouts
Cabbage
Cauliflour
Kale
Peaches
Pears
Spinach
Turnips