Iodine deficiency is considered to be one of the most common nutrient deficiencies in the world. But why is iodine so necessary for us and where do we get it? You will find the answers to these questions in this post! Read more and find out how to keep iodine reserves in the body full.
What is iodine?
Iodine is one of the essential minerals, but our body cannot produce it on its own. This means that we need to get the necessary supply of iodine regularly from external sources to avoid iodine deficiency. Iodine can be found in many foods, drinking water, salt, and can also be taken as a food supplement if necessary.
So why do we need iodine?
Iodine has several responsible roles in the body. The main task of iodine is to support the proper functioning of thyroid hormones and to keep the thyroid gland in good working order. Among other things, iodine is also important and necessary:
- for normal functioning of the nervous system;
- to support immune function;
- for protein synthesis;
- to support cognitive functions;
- for normal development of connective tissue, hair, nails and skin.
Where do we get iodine and how much do we need on a daily basis?
Iodine can be found in algae, in various foods of plant and animal origin, in iodised salt and, if necessary, as a food supplement. According to the Estonian national nutritional recommendations, the daily recommended amount of iodine for an adult is 150 micrograms.
The following foods are considered to be the best natural sources of iodine:
- seaweeds (dulse, nori, kelp, kombu, wakame – see Centralsun range of seaweeds HERE);
- green beans;
- garlic;
- kale and spinach;
- strawberries;
- organic potatoes (with skin);
- zucchini;
- whole grain products;
- yoghurt and cheese;
- eggs;
- seafood;
- meat and chicken.
But what are the signs of iodine deficiency?
Iodine deficiency can manifest itself in many ways. Excessive consumption of foods containing goitrogens (compounds that prevent the thyroid gland from synthesising hormones) and regular consumption of iodine-poor foods can both contribute to iodine deficiency. Long-term iodine deficiency can lead to serious health problems, which is why maintaining the body’s iodine reserves is vitally important and necessary. Some of the symptoms that may indicate iodine deficiency:
- weight gain;
- increased sensitivity to cold;
- dry skin;
- hair loss;
- an enlarged thyroid gland;
- palpitations;
- rapid heart rate and loss of arterial elasticity;
- weakness and fatigue;
- growth retardation in children due to iodine deficiency.
When should iodine be taken as a food supplement?
Iodine supplementation may be helpful if the body is already iodine deficient, if there is a health problem or if consumed food is too low in iodine. An iodine supplement may help:
- in case of iodine deficiency;
- for thyroid problems (in moderate amounts);
- in alleviating symptoms of iodine deficiency;
- in case of inflammation of the mucous membranes of the mouth.
The key lies in balance, as excessive iodine content in the body is also not healthy
If too much iodine enters the body on a regular basis, it can adversely affect the function of thyroid hormones, leading to thyroid problems and hormone imbalances. Therefore, you must be especially careful when using iodine supplements and definitely you should avoid megadoses. Iodine poisoning can appear as a burning sensation in the mouth and throat and can also be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and a low pulse rate. However, for poisoning to occur, several grams of iodine should be administered at once, which is many times more than the prescribed daily norm.
Do you want to boost your health with iodine? High-quality iodine preparations are waiting for you at Centralsun online shop
Liquid iodine preparations from Epigenetics have established themselves in the selection of food supplements in our online shop. You will find Smart Iodide, a combination of different forms of iodine (including natural iodine from seaweed and nettle leaves) and highly bioavailable potassium iodide.
Find the full range of supplements HERE!
PS! All the products in Centralsun’s selection of supplements have undergone rigorous quality controls and are pure in composition and free from harmful additives, with the aim of providing the best possible support for your health.