Iodine is an element that plays a very important role in the hormonal management of the body. Almost 80% of this element is in the thyroid, the rest is located in the ovaries, bones and blood.This element is necessary for the production of thyroid hormones: thyroxine (T4) and its active form of triiodothyronine (T3). Normal concentrations of these hormones in the blood influence proper development and functioning of the brain and nervous system, pituitary gland, heart, muscles and kidneys. Thyroid hormones are responsible for the efficient transformation of nutrients into energy, they control the body temperature, and also affect the nervous and circulatory systems and muscles. They also regulate the processes of cell growth and maturation.
Symptoms of iodine deficiency:
Long-term iodine deficiency causes hypothyroidism, enlarged thyroid gland and the formation of goiter.
The occurrence of hypothyroidism in children is a cause of delayed physical and mental development.
Iodine deficiency in pregnant women leads to irreversible brain damage in the fetus and newborns. It is also the cause of reproductive disorders in women (miscarriage, premature birth) and increased mortality of children.
Symptoms of excess amount of iodine:
Most people tolerate excess iodine from food. In some people, for example with autoimmune thyroid disease, however, adverse symptoms may occur even at the iodine intake level considered safe. The consequence of this may be hyperthyroidism. Sometimes, you may experience acute adverse reactions, such as increased activity of the salivary glands, excessive secretion of mucus in the bronchi, allergic reactions or skin changes.
Sources of iodine in food:
Iodine is most commonly found in sea food: crustaceans, mollusca, fish (mainly cod and halibut, smaller Baltic herring). In addition, iodine is found in iodized table salt, fatty cheese, hazelnuts, broccoli and eggs.
Supplementation with manganese:
Supplements which contain manganese:
Iodine 150 mcg 120 tablets (Oxford Vitality) – product available here
Contraindications:
A contraindication to the iodine intake is hyperthyroidism and suspected thyroid cancer.