What is Iodine? Iodine Benefits, Deficiency and Treatment

Iodine, which cannot be produced by our body and is supplied through food, is a very useful element for our body. Iodine is essential for energy metabolism and thyroid hormone production. For this reason, if the iodine ratio in the body is below a certain amount, hormone levels are damaged and some health problems arise.

Iodine utilization is very important for thyroid hormones T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine). Iodine ingested by the body is absorbed by the gastrointestinal system and passes into the bloodstream, from where it is sent to the thyroid gland. This produces the hormones T3 and T4, which are stored in the thyroid gland and sent to the blood. The production of T3 and T4 is essential for an efficient thyroid function.

Iodine is an essential component of thyroid hormones and its deficiency is recognized as the most common cause of preventable brain damage in the world. Today, approximately 800 million people are affected by iodine deficiency disorders, including hypothyroidism, mental retardation, goiter and a wide range of other growth and development abnormalities.


What Causes Iodine Deficiency?
Iodine, an important mineral for thyroid hormone, is often neglected and can bring many disorders such as mental retardation and infertility. As a matter of fact, thyroid hormones can negatively affect the heart, kidneys and muscles, especially the brain. Iodine, which is generally thought to be taken from salt, can be obtained from many foods other than salt.

What are the Diseases Caused by Iodine Deficiency?
In case of deficiency of iodine taken through food, many organs, especially the brain, can be adversely affected by this situation. For this reason, the iodine ratio that the body needs according to age and a number of factors should be kept within reference ranges. It should also be kept in mind that iodine deficiency is as dangerous as its high level.



Foods Containing Iodine
While some disorders may occur due to iodine deficiency, health problems may also occur if iodine is consumed in excessive amounts. For this reason, it is very important that the daily amount of iodine is not consumed more than necessary. Iodine can be tolerated quite easily due to its presence in foods consumed daily. Foods containing iodine are generally as follows: Yogurt Milk Potato Himalayan crystal salt Egg Saltwater fish Seaweeds Shellfish


Iodine that cannot be produced by the body and taken orally may be insufficient in some cases. The causes of iodine deficiency are generally as follows:
Pregnant individuals (Pregnancy is a period when the need for iodine increases. Accordingly, iodine consumed under normal conditions is not sufficient during pregnancy). Lack of iodine in the salt used Following a vegan and vegetarian diet Excessive iodine loss through urine and feces Excessive loss of iodine with excessive sweating Insufficient iodine in the country's soil