Iodine is the most commonly deficiency in the world. Iodine is an element required for body growth and survival. It is many where in the environment, but mainly found in the ocean and the soil. Because of iodine’s biological importance, it is present in living organisms in higher concentration. Iodine is found in different amounts in plants and animals but the amounts we get from plants depend upon the concentration of iodine in the soil they are grown from.
Iodine deficiency leads to diminished production of thyroid hormones and simultaneously, increased TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) levels secreted by the master gland. This may lead further in enlargement of the thyroid gland medically known as goiter. Furthermore, goiter with much iodine deficiency can also put negative impact on growth and development of the body, particularly the brain.
Substance called goitrogen that naturally occur in food can also cause goiter since it hinders the absorption and utilization of iodine. People eating such foods may be at risk of developing iodine deficiency. Some of the foods containing goitrogens include cabbages, turnips, grape seeds, peanuts, soy, kale, cauliflowers/broccolis, rutabaga, spuds, Indian mustards etc. Nevertheless, cooking can inactivate these substances.
Signs and symptoms of iodine deficiency: -
- Cretinism, a syndrome causing mental and physical retardation1 featuring mental deficiency, deaf mutism and hindered growth of the body resulting shortened stature
- Hypothyroidism (reduced thyroid activity)
- Chronic Myxedema (a severe iodine deficiency result)
- Reduced metabolic rate
- Biochemical alteration2
- Anemia
- Goiter
- Inflammation of tongue (glossitis)
- Lethargy and unusual fatigue/exhaustion
- Puffiness of hands and face
To meet daily requirement of iodine, iodized salt is enough. This has been supported by research that was conducted on pregnant women. Iodized source is the easiest way to provide adequate amounts of iodine that body requires regularly3. In addition, it is also one of the inexpensive ways to provide iodine than other supplements.
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