Iodine is essential component of thyroxine and triiodothyronine both of which are hormones produced by thyroid gland. Iodine is only gathered through food in the diet. Inadequate iodine intake leads to inadequate thyroid hormone production. Hypothyroidism is caused by iodine deficiencies.
Iodine Deficiency Disorders Prevention day which also is known as World Iodine Deficiency Day is observed each year in October. During this time awareness as to how much iodine our bodies need and the consequences we face if our body is iodine deficiencent.
Iodine Deficiency disorders have been brought into the spotlight as a major public health problem with around 1/3 of the world population is at risk of iodine deficiency disorders. The WHO states that 54 countries are still iodine deficient.
Deficiencies of iodine may cause these disorders:
- Enlargement of the thyroid gland
- Mental illness: subnormal intelligence, mental retardation, impaired cognitive development in children, brain damage
- neuromuscular weakness and spasticity (muscle stiffness)
- Endemic cretinism (stunted physical and mental growth)
- Stillbirth and Spontaneous abortion in pregnant women
- Congenital abnormalities such as deaf-mutism (inability to speak) and dwarfism.
- Defect in vision, hearing, and speech
One of the most common sources of iodine is iodized salt. This is not the only way the only way to get iodine:
- Milk
- Eggs
- Seaweed
- Shellfish
- Sea fish
- Seafood
- Meat
- Cereal Grains
The thyroid gland demands adequate amounts of thyroxine to be takenin by the thyroid gland daily. The World Health Organization recommends that 90 mcg of iodine be taken in by infants and children up to 5 years old. For children 6 to 12 years old need 120 mcg of iodine intake and for individuals over the age of 12 as well as adults need 150 mcg.
Thanks Angie- this was a great post with useful information.
ReplyDeletesorry - I meant Annie- it's early in the morning here.
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