MINERALS: Iodine

Functions of Iodine
Deficiency of Iodine
Universal prevention and treatment of Iodine deficiency
Recommended dietary allowance for Iodine
Food sources of Iodine
Toxicity of Iodine
References

Iodine

Functions of Iodine

Aids in the development and functioning of the thyroid gland.
Regulates the body's production of energy.
Helps burn excess fat by stimulating the rate of metabolism.
Mentality, speech, the condition of the hair, skin, & teeth are dependent upon a well-functioning thyroid gland.

Deficiency of Iodine

Enlarged thyroid gland, slow mental reaction, dry skin & hair, weight gain, loss of physical & mental vigor.

Universal prevention and treatment of Iodine deficiency

Universal salt iodization provides the most effective and affordable means to prevent IDD throughout the world; over 90 countries presently iodize their salt. Other iodizable vehicles include water, grain and dairy products. Iodized oil supplements may be periodically administered in remote areas where salt iodization is not feasible.

Recommended dietary allowance for Iodine

Food sources of Iodine

Haddock, herring, whiting, kelp, seaweeds, Iodine-fortified salt.

Toxicity of Iodine

Iodine intake is well tolerated by individuals. For this reason, long term consumption of iodine through iodized salt is considered safe. Chronic, excessive iodine intakes may occasionally lead to goiter and hypothyroidism.

References

Hetzel, B. S. (1989). The Story of Iodine Deficiency: An International Challenge in Nutrition. Oxford University Press, Delhi.
Stanbury, J. B., ed. (1994). The Damaged Brain of Iodine Deficiency. Cognitive Communications Corp., Elmsford, NY.
Kavishe, F. (1998). Iodine deficiency disorders. In: Encyclopedia of Human Nutrition. (Sadler, M. J., Strain, J. J. & Caballero, B, eds.) pp. 1136-1153. Academic Press, London.