Iodine helps make thyroid hormones, which help keep cells and the metabolic rate healthy.

 

Iodine

Iodine is a trace element that may be found in some foods, is added to some forms of salt, and can also be purchased as a nutritional supplement. The thyroid hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) require iodine to function properly (T3). Thyroid hormones are essential regulators of metabolic activity because they govern numerous fundamental biochemical activities, such as protein synthesis and enzyme activity. In foetuses and babies, they are also essential for appropriate skeletal and central nervous system development.

Iodine is also known as iodide, is a mineral that may be found in the earth's soil and ocean waters. Iodine may be found in a variety of salt water and plant-based meals, although it is most commonly found in iodized salt. It's critical to have adequate iodine in your diet. Hormones, foetal development, and other processes are all regulated by it. If your iodine levels are low, your doctor may advise you to take a supplement. You should not use supplements without first seeing your doctor.

The global Iodine market is estimated to be valued at US$ 1,485 million in 2021 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 5.4 % over the forecast period (2021-2028). Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), commonly known as thyrotropin, is the hormone that regulates thyroid function. The pituitary gland secretes this hormone to regulate thyroid hormone production and secretion, protecting the organism against hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.

 What if we intake too much Iodine?

 Taking excessive dosages of iodine over an extended length of time may cause your thyroid gland to malfunction. This can result in a variety of symptoms, including weight gain. If you use iodine supplements, keep in mind that too much might be dangerous. Iodine supplements at doses of 0.5mg or less per day are unlikely to cause damage.

How much Iodine should be taken?

Every day, adults require 140 micrograms (g) of Iodine. Most people should be able to receive enough iodine through a varied and well-balanced diet. If you practise a strict vegan diet and don't consume any fish, you might want to consider taking an iodine supplement. Iodine is also added to several forms of plant-based milk. If you're thinking about taking a supplement, talk to your doctor about it.

Here is a list of some of the most important uses of Iodine-

 ·        Promoting thyroid health

·      Reducing risk for some goiters

·        Managing overactive thyroid gland

·        Treating thyroid cancer

·        Neurodevelopment during pregnancy

·        Improving cognitive function

·        Improving birth weight

·        May help treat fibrocystic breast disease

·        Disinfecting water

·        Protection from nuclear fallout

·        Treating infections

 Side effects of iodine-

·        nausea or vomiting

·        diarrhea

·        fever

·        burning sensations in the throat and mouth

·        stomach pain

 What happens if we take too much iodine?

 Taking excessive dosages of iodine over an extended length of time may cause your thyroid gland to malfunction. This can result in a variety of symptoms, including weight gain. If you use iodine supplements, keep in mind that too much might be dangerous.

Iodine supplements at doses of 0.5mg or less per day are unlikely to cause damage.

 Iodized Salt

Salt-iodization initiatives exist in the United States, Canada, and dozens of other nations. Salt makers in the United States have been adding iodine to table salt since the 1920s, albeit it is currently a voluntary practise. The FDA has allowed the use of potassium iodide and cuprous iodide for salt iodization, but the WHO prefers potassium iodate because it is more stable, especially in warm, moist, or tropical regions. Iodized salt in the United States has 45 mcg iodine/g salt (between 1/8 and 1/4 teaspoon), according to the label; tested salt samples average 47.5–50.7 mcg iodine/g salt.