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The Importance and Benefits of Iodine to Health

Although a comparatively recent discovery (iodine was online isolated as a seperate element in the early 20th century), iodine is now known to be crucial to human health. Although its uses are limited, they are nonetheless key to both physical and mental health.

People only need a small amount of iodine each day, and the American Food and Drug Administration recommends just 150 micrograms a day. However, despite such a small amount being needed, iodine deficiency is a problem in some parts of the world.

Why is Iodine Needed?

The primary need for iodine comes because of its use by the thyroid to produce. In fact, about 80% of the iodine found in the body is found in the thyroid. Iodine is used by the thyroid to produce thyroid hormones, thyroxine and triodothyronine. These vital hormones play a significant role in regulating processes involving growth and development of the body, and also influence the maturing reproductive system.

Because of its influence on the thyroid, iodine is thought to affect metabolism both in its levels and processes. It helps to ensure that the body burns calories efficiently, thus preventing the storing of excess calories as fat. Iodine also has a role in maintaining the energy level of the body and in maintaing the health of the nails, skin, teeth, nails and hair.

The Effects of Iodine Deficiency

Iodine deficiency is not common in the developed nations, but it can be a problem in poorer countries, especially away from the coastal regios. The reason for this is that the main sources of iodine are sea foods, such as kelp, and foods grown in iodine rich soil. Nowadays salt can be enriched with iodine to help fend off deficiency amongs the poor especially, and iodized salt is commonly sold here in the Phillipines.

According to the World Health Oranization iodine deficiency is the most common cause in the world of mental retardation. other mental problems which can be caused by this deficiency are anxiety and depression, and feelings of frustration.

When it comes to the known physical symptoms of iodine deficiency, possibilities may include fatigue, weight gain, constipation, plus goiters, decline in fertility, impaired thyroid operation, goiters, and some abnormalities at child birth.