What is Iodine

What is Iodine

Iodine (atomic symbol I) has many uses that you may or may not be aware of. For example, iodine is commonly used as a disinfectant for drinking water and to treat cuts & wounds. It is also an essential trace mineral we need for life.

Benefits of Iodine

Your thyroid gland needs iodine to make the thyroid hormones thyroxine and triiodothyronine. Your body uses these hormones to regulate your metabolic rate, body temperature, immune support, and a host of other physiological functions.

Deficiency of iodine can be devastating, however, with the production of iodized salt not as common as it once was. It can cause poor thyroid functioning, which can lead to goiters, an enlargement of the thyroid gland. A lack of iodine can also cause fatigue, weight gain, and for children mental retardation. Toxicity is not very common, but in some cases it may cause nausea, vomiting, burning mouth, or internal pain.

Iodine Foods

It is most commonly found in iodized salt and you can also find it in most seafood's, because iodine is in seawater. Dairy products like milk, yogurt, & cheese tend to contain iodine if the farmer fed the cows food containing iodine. You can also find it in kelp, eggs, and strawberries. It is recommended to consume 150 mcg per day of iodine.