Iodine is an essential micronutrient in every person’s diet. It enables the body to function properly. In this article, you will learn about the role of iodine in the body, the symptoms of iodine deficiency and excess, and who should supplement it and how.
The Role of Iodine in the Body
Iodine is a chemical element present in many foods. Its presence is crucial for the proper development of the thyroid gland in a child from the early stages of pregnancy. Therefore, endocrinologists always ask women who are trying to conceive, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding about iodine supplementation. Of course, adults also need iodine, so maintaining adequate iodine intake is important throughout life.
A proper iodine level ensures the correct functioning of the thyroid gland. Iodine is involved in the production of thyroid hormones—triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). Despite the small size of the thyroid gland, iodine deficiency or excess can have significant health consequences. The thyroid may produce too little or too much hormone, leading to hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
Iodine also affects brain function, supporting concentration and memory. It participates in the metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates, and vitamins. Additionally, it regulates the processes of maturation and the development of reproductive organs and is responsible for maintaining normal body temperature. Interestingly, iodine also exhibits protective effects in inflammatory and cancerous processes.
Symptoms of Iodine Deficiency and Excess
Diagnosing iodine deficiency or excess is complex because the most accurate measurement is found in urine. To check its concentration, a 24-hour urine collection is required to assess daily ioduria. Both deficiency and excess of iodine can cause symptoms in the human body:
Deficiency can cause nervous system damage already in the fetal period. Over time, it may contribute to the development of hypothyroidism, causing delayed physical development. In adults, iodine deficiency related to hypothyroidism manifests as fatigue, feeling cold, constipation, weight gain, dry skin, hair loss, and difficulty concentrating.
Excess iodine during pregnancy may cause hyperthyroidism in the child. In adults, too much iodine can also lead to hyperthyroidism. Symptoms indicating iodine excess include weight loss, drowsiness, irritability, hand tremors, heart palpitations, and fertility disorders.
What Is the Daily Iodine Requirement?
Since both iodine deficiency and excess can be harmful to health, supplementation should be approached cautiously. It’s important to remember that iodine dosage depends on age. Before starting supplementation, it is advisable to consult a specialist to determine the daily iodine requirement and assess whether the diet is sufficiently rich in this element. In most cases, patients do not need iodine supplementation, except in certain clinical situations.
Daily iodine requirements:
- 1–5 years: ~100 µg
- 6–12 years: ~150 µg
- 13–50 years: ~200 µg
- Pregnant/breastfeeding women: ~250 µg
Few people know that to prevent iodine deficiency in our climate zone, Poland introduced preventive measures in 1997 by iodizing table salt. Currently, Poland is considered a country with adequate iodine intake, and the risk of developing goiter or cretinism (congenital iodine deficiency syndrome) is significantly lower.
Salt is not the only source of iodine. This element is also abundant in fish, yellow cheese, broccoli, spinach, peas, eggs, liver, and milk. Therefore, including these products in your diet is beneficial. Consulting a dietitian can be helpful in developing an appropriate diet.
Who Should Supplement Iodine?
Women planning pregnancy, pregnant women, and breastfeeding women should supplement iodine. If you do not belong to these groups but have a thyroid disorder and are wondering whether to supplement this element, you should consult a specialist.