The human body requires minerals, vitamins and nutrients in the appropriate quantities for a healthy growth and development. One important mineral that is required in our body is iodine. Iodine is primarily found in the thyroid gland. It is essential for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland. Iodine is involved in the synthesis of the thyroid hormones like the thyroxin and triiodothyronine. These hormones are responsible for regulating the metabolism in the body like the rate of combustion of calories, mental development in children, growth of the fetus and the development of healthy muscles.

150 mg of iodine intake is suggested for adult’s everyday. Seaweeds are the richest natural source for iodine. Fishes, prawns and mussels are good sources of iodine. While, salt is the major source of iodine in our daily diet. However, deficiency or overdose of iodine intake could be harmful, leading to enlargement of the thyroid gland. It also increases the risks of cancer. Iodine plays an important role in biochemical reactions. These are those reactions that stimulate the heart rate and respiratory rate. It also affects a number of other physiological activities as well.

Pregnant women should abstain from consuming large amount of iodine. Iodine deficiency during pregnancy may result in stillbirths, abortions and congenital abnormalities such as goiter, cretinism and irreversible form of mental retardation. Therefore, it is very essential to consume the right amount of iodine at the time of pregnancy that is 220mg and 290 when breast feeding.

Iodine deficiency is common in people living in mountainous regions where the soil is deficient in iodine. An insufficient intake of iodine leads to hypothyroidism, which is deficient production of thyroid hormone. A deficiency of iodine may cause symptoms like cold hands, weight gain, high cholesterol levels, anxiety, heart diseases, hair loss, muscle cramps, a feeling of neck swelling, hoarse voice, dry skin and brittle finger nails, high blood pressure, abnormal menstrual problems in women and poor memory. It also leads to fatigue and reddish complexion. You are likely to feel sleepier than usual. The body’s immune system also weakens. Thereby, making you prone to infections. If the condition is critical, the enlarged portion of the thyroid gland is removed by the way of surgery.

Iodine helps to regulate mood and prevent cancer. It also helps to treat and prevent fibrocystic breasts and breast cancer in women. It regulates and maintains blood pressure. Perhaps, it also enhances the immune function. Excess of iodine may lead to hyperthyroidism which is an over production of thyroid hormones. The condition is experienced in the costal areas where people consume more of seafood and sea products. The symptoms of hyperthyroidism are mood and emotional swings, anxiety, feeling of weakness and weakened muscles.

Both these conditions of hypothyroidism and hypothyroidism could be easily prevented and treated. It is always safe to consult a doctor and get treated for any thyroid related problem. But one must always ensure that the right amount of iodine is consumed. And do remember you can have enough iodine in your diet by using iodized salt and fresh vegetables and fruits that are grown on iodine rich soil.

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Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
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