Iodine

element is essential for normal growth and development.

Function of Iodine:
Iodine is essential for normal thyroid function. Seventy to eighty percent of the
body's iodine is found in the neck's thyroid gland. The remaining iodine is distributed
throughout the body including to the ovaries, muscles, and blood

Deficiency of Iodine:
At any age, iodine deficiency can lead to hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone
levels). Symptoms of hypothyroidism include sluggishness, weight gain, and
sensitivity to temperature changes. Hypothyroidism can also impair the physical and
mental development of infants and children. Actually, iodine deficiency is now
accepted as the most common cause of preventable mental retardation in the
world. In developed countries, such as the United States, iodine deficiencies are now
rare. This is because table salt is supplemented with iodine and crops are usually
grown in iodine-rich soil.

The most usual sign of iodine deficiency is an enlarged thyroid gland. Some
individuals who have hypothyroidism develop an extremely large thyroid, known as
goiter.

Note: A variety of medical conditions can lead to the symptoms mentioned above. Therefore, it is
important to have a physician evaluate them so that appropriate medical care can be given.

Toxicity (Iodine Overdose):
Iodine supplements are not recommended for people who live in areas where iodine
levels are sufficient. Taking excessive amounts of iodine may impair the production
of thyroid hormones, causing temporary hypothyroidism. The overconsumption of
iodine can also increase the risk for other thyroid diseases such as Hashimoto's,
Graves', certain thyroid cancers, and thyrotoxicosis.

Caution: Eating natural foods that are high in iodine (in moderation) is the safest and
healthiest way to get an adequate supply of the nutrient. Due to risk of toxicity,
individuals should always consult with a knowledgeable health care provider before
starting doses of supplements. Before giving supplements to children, it is
recommended that you first consult with their pediatrician. Also, some supplements
may interfere with medications. If you are taking medication, it is recommended that
you consult with your physician before taking any supplements. All supplements
should be kept in childproof bottles and out of children's reach.

Iodine Food Chart (List of Foods High in Iodine):

Seaweed, dried, 1/4 ounce - (apx. 4,500 mcg - 4.5 mg)
Cod 3 ounces - (99 mcg)
Salt, iodized, 1 gram - (77 mcg)
Potato, with peel, baked, 1 medium - (60 mcg)
Milk, cow's, 1 cup - (56 mcg)
Shrimp 3 ounces - (35 mcg)
Fish sticks 2 fish sticks - (35 mcg)
Turkey breast, baked, 3 ounces - (34 mcg)
Navy beans, cooked, 1/2 cup - (32 mcg)
Tuna, canned in oil, 3 ounces ~1/2 can - (17 mcg)
Egg, boiled, 1 large - (12 mcg)

Sources:

American Dietetic Association: Complete Food And Nutrition Guide (2nd Edition)
Roberta Larson Duyff, MS, RD, FADA, CFCS

Vitamins, Minerals, Herbs and More
Pamela Wartian Smith, MD, MPH

University of Maryland Medical Center - umm.edu

Linus Pauling Institute - oregonstate.edu

Wikipedia The Free Encyclopedia

Eating foods that are high in
iodine (in moderation) can help
to prevent conditions such as
breast cancer, stomach cancer,
decreased immune system
function, and hypothyroidism.
Foods high in iodine include:
seafood and seaweed such as
wakame. In the U.S. and U.K.,
dairy products are also good
sources of iodine because iodine
is commonly added to animal
feed.

What is Iodine?
Iodine, a non-metallic trace

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The content on
this website is for educational purposes only. Please consult with your physician before using natural
remedies and before making any drastic changes to your diet or exercise program.