Iodine
Foods with Iodine
Iodine is an essential element that can be obtained for both food, fortified salt and supplements. It plays a vital role for thyroid hormone production. Iodine deficiency can lead to serious health problems, including goiter (enlarged thyroid gland), intellectual disability and cretinism.
Iodine is necessary to produce thyroid hormones, both thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). T4 contains four atoms of iodine per molecule and T3 contains three atoms of iodine per molecule. A deficiency in iodine leads to reduced production of these hormones and may result in goiter and/or mild to severe intellectual disability. Fortified table salt iodine was introduced in the 1920’s and eliminated deficiency in many parts of the world.
Disclaimers:
You should always consult your health care provider before starting any herbal supplements or products. *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
