Iodine – An Essential Mineral

Iodine is a vital mineral for the well-being of your body. Studies show that iodine deficiency is quite common around the world, as the body does not synthesize this mineral, but it should be obtained from food.

Another problem is that iodine is not found in very large amounts in food unless it has been added to it by large companies (e.g. iodized salt). In general, most of the iodine is found in the seas, especially seaweed.

Iodine is absorbed into the human body through the gut, from where it enters the bloodstream and is stored in the thyroid gland, where it produces hormones. An appropriate amount of iodine helps burn fat and prevents goiter and thyroid problems.

• It is absolutely necessary to get enough iodine to keep the thyroid hormone or thyroxine in balance. This helps prevent goiter and hyperthyroidism.
• It keeps your metabolism and nervous system running and supports your child’s growth.

• It synthesizes carbohydrates and cholesterol.
• Provides energy and maintains cell health.
• Burns extra fat.
• Nails, hair and teeth stay strong and healthy thanks to iodine.
• For external use for wound disinfection. Oral tablets can also be put in water.

Low levels of iodine in the body can cause the following symptoms:

• Stream
• Hyperthyroidism
• Feeling cold
• Exhaustion, pain in the joints
• Insomnia
• Dryness of the skin and hair
• Constipated
• Cretinism: A childhood illness that causes short stature and intellectual developmental disorder

Fish and Seafood

The sea is a real treasure chest of iodine and that is why it would be important to eat fish and seafood at least three times a week. They are rich in vitamins such as B, A, D and E vitamins and fatty acids such as Omega-3. All of these are very important for your health.

Eat salmon, herring, shrimp, cod, mussels and sole.

Vegetables

You may not consider seaweed a vegetable, but it is an excellent source of iodine and should be found in food every now and then. In addition, onions, beets, chard, spinach, cucumber, green beans, watercress and garlic are recommended. In addition to iodine, they contain antibacterial properties.

Cheese

Some cheeses are also good sources of iodine. Such is the case with cheddar, for example: if you eat it 100 grams, you get 39 milligrams of iodine. Different types of Manchego cheeses contain about 34 milligrams of iodine per 100 grams.

Cereals

Many common grains such as rice, wheat and rye are high in iodine. One hundred grams of corn starch contains 80 milligrams of iodine.

Always keep in mind that your doctor should be the person who tells you if you need more iodine or not. You can’t start eating seaweed daily or increase the amount of iodized salt in your food. Excessive iodine can cause hyperthyroidism, for example.

In addition, not all medications can be combined with iodine, such as those used to treat manic depression. Always ask your doctor if you have any concerns. A balanced diet that includes grains, fruits and vegetables is always good for your health.