MINERALS: Iodine
Overview of Minerals | Calcium | Chromium | Copper | Iodine | Iron | Magnesium | Zinc | Manganese | Molybdenum | Phosphorus | Potassium | Selenium | Other Trace Elements
 
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
See Recommended dietary allowances for minerals.
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.
  
Overview of Minerals | Calcium | Chromium | Copper | Iodine | Iron | Magnesium | Zinc | Manganese | Molybdenum | Phosphorus | Potassium | Selenium | Other Trace Elements
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