Interesting Iodine Facts

There are many interesting iodine facts that are not well known to the average American.  The mineral Iodine is considered a trace mineral.  This means that while it is an essential part of many bodily functions, consuming large quantities is not required to carry out these crucial efforts. However, becuase iodine is believed to be such an important mineral to all of us, the US government created an ingenious method to ensure citizens received an adequate supply -- Legislation was passed requiring that iodine be incorporated into normal, everyday table salt (interesting iodine facts #1!)

The way this mineral works is that when the iodine is ingested, seventy-five percent of this mineral makes its way to the thyroid gland. At that point, iodine combines with two important hormones that are produced by the thyroid gland: thyroxine and triiodothyronine. These two hormones are required by every part of the body.  Their most important role is supporting the body's ability to produce energy.  It is these hormones that control and regulate basal metabolic rates.  In simple terms, they determine how fast and how efficiently the body is able to burn calories.

Very importantly, thyroid hormones help control a child's mental development and their overall growth rate. A major risk for pregnant women is if they develop an iodine deficiency, they increase their risk of their newborn babies developing some degree of mental retardation.

Iodine is also a proven and effective antiseptic.  In addition to helping clean and heal wounds, it will discolor the skin.

Another role of iodine is for times when secretions build up in the lungs, iodine is used to thin them.  Thus, making these secretions much easier to expel.

A person who is sensitivity to iodine may experience skin problems. This is usually in the form of a rash or ulcers in the mucous membrane. They also may develop a fever and neck swelling.

Iodine Sources

One of the interesting facts about iodine is that it is actually added to most table salt.  This is so people will generally get the required amount in their diet.  The amount that is recommended can actually come from just one teaspoon of iodized salt.

Another source of iodine is seafood and sea plants, such as, kelp and seaweed.  Fruits and vegetables grown in coastal regions are other good sources of iodine. Processed foods are not a good source of iodine as they typically are not made with iodized salt (interesting iodine facts #2).

The recommended daily allowance for adults is 150 mg/day. Women who are pregnant or who are breast feeding require more: 157 mg/day and 200 mg/day respectively.

Iodine Deficiency Symptoms

Due to its important role in producing energy, it is not surprising that the most notable symptoms of iodine deficiency include lethargy, slowed reflexes and a slowed metabolic rate.  The skin may become dry and hoarseness in your voice can develop. Obesity can be one of the symptoms of an iodine deficiency.  This is because the amount of fat in the blood supply can increase, causing an unusual weight gain. 

If the deficiency continues for an extended period of time, an emlarged thyroid gland can result. An enlarged thyroid gland is known as a goiter. A goiter develops when the thyroid gland is forced to work extra hard to produce adequate levels of thyroxine and can usually be seen protruding from the side of the neck.  Unfortunately, a deficiency of iodine in children may lead to mental retardation. But fortunately, this type of deficiency is rare in developed countries.

We hope this article has provided you with some information about this essential trace mineral and you enjoyed the interesting iodine facts.