Iodine and the thyroid function: What does research say?
Iodine and the thyroid function: What does research say?
iodine and the thyroid function: What does research say?
Iodine is an essential trace element that is essential for a healthy thyroid function. The thyroid gland produces various hormones that play an important role in regulating metabolism, growth and development. In this article we will take a closer look at how iodine affects the thyroid function and what the current research says.
The meaning of iodine for the thyroid
The thyroid needs iodine to produce thyroid hormones. These hormones are thyroxine (T4) and trijodthyronine (T3). T4 is an inactive hormone that is produced in the thyroid gland and converted into T3 that is the actual active form.
iodine is absorbed through the food and comes into the bloodstream via the gastrointestinal tract. From there it is absorbed by the thyroid gland and converted into hormones. The thyroid gland stores iodine in order to be able to produce sufficient hormones over a longer period of time.
A sufficient iodine supply is therefore very important for the thyroid function. A lack of iodine can lead to a reduced production of thyroid hormones, which in turn can cause various health problems.
iodine deficiency and its consequences
An iodine deficiency can lead to a disturbance in the thyroid function known as iodine deficiency truma or goiter. With this disease, the thyroid gland increases in order to continue to be able to produce sufficient hormones. A goiter can be visible and palpable, and in some cases there can also be difficulty swallowing and respiratory problems.
iodine deficiency can also lead to hypothyroidism, a hypothyroidism in which not enough thyroid hormones are produced. This can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance and slow metabolism.
Especially pregnant women and children are susceptible to the effects of an iodine lack. Iodine is important for fetal brain development, and a deficiency during pregnancy can lead to intellectual disabilities and developmental delays in the child.
iodine supply and recommendations
The iodine supply varies in different parts of the world. In some countries in which the soil contains little iodine, there can be a widespread iodine deficiency. In order to improve the population's iodine status, many countries have introduced iodine supplementation programs, such as the iodized salt.
The German Nutrition Society (DGE) recommends a daily iodine intake of 180 micrograms for adults. Pregnant and breastfeeding women have an increased need and should consume 230-260 micrograms per day. For children, the recommendations differ depending on age levels.
The iodine intake can be increased by eating food such as seafish, seafood and iodized dining salt. In some cases, however, additional iodine supplementation may be necessary, especially in people who have an increased need or live in regions with a lack of iodine.
research on iodine and thyroid function
Research on iodine and thyroid function has shown that a sufficient iodine intake is decisive to maintain a normal thyroid function. A study from 2014 examined the iodine status and thyroid function of over 8,000 people in Germany and found that an iodine deficiency was widespread. This underlines the importance of sufficient iodine supply.
Other studies have shown that iodine deficiency can not only affect the thyroid function, but can also have an impact on neurocognitive development and growth. A systematic review of studies from 2013 showed that iodine supplementation during pregnancy can lead to an improvement in the neurocognitive development potential of the children.
faqs
1. How does an iodine deficiency comment?
An iodine deficiency can lead to an enlarged thyroid (goiter) and a reduced production of thyroid hormones. This can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, sensitivity to the cold and slow metabolism.
2. How can iodine deficiency be avoided?
A balanced diet that is rich in seafish, seafood and yodeled salt can help to cover the iodine requirement. In some cases, iodine supplementation may be necessary, especially for pregnant women and people in regions with a lack of iodine.
3. Can too high iodine levels also be harmful?
Yes, too high iodine levels can also be harmful and lead to an overactive thyroid. It is important to cover the iodine requirement, but not to have excessive iodine intake.
4. How can the iodine status be checked?
The iodine status can be determined by blood or urine examinations. Your doctor can give you more information and check the iodine status.
FAZIT
Iodine is an essential trace element that is essential for a healthy thyroid function. A lack of iodine can lead to a reduced production of thyroid hormones and various health problems. A sufficient iodine intake is therefore important to prevent possible deficiency symptoms. Research has shown that iodine supplementation can contribute to improving the child's neurocognitive development during pregnancy. Talk to your doctor about your iodine needs and possible additions to ensure that you are sufficiently supplied with iodine.