Iodine and thyroid function: What does the research say?

Iodine and thyroid function: What does the research say?

Iodine and thyroid function: What does the research say?

Iodine is an essential trace element that is essential for healthy thyroid function. The thyroid produces various hormones that play an important role in regulating metabolism, growth and development. In this article, we'll take a closer look at how iodine affects thyroid function and what current research says about it.

The importance of iodine for the thyroid

The thyroid needs iodine to produce thyroid hormones. These hormones are thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). T4 is an inactive hormone that is made in the thyroid and is converted into T3, which is the actual active form.

Iodine is absorbed through food and enters the bloodstream via the gastrointestinal tract. From there it is absorbed by the thyroid and converted into hormones. The thyroid stores iodine in order to be able to produce sufficient hormones over a longer period of time.

Adequate iodine intake is therefore very important for thyroid function. A lack of iodine can lead to reduced production of thyroid hormones, which in turn can cause various health problems.

Iodine deficiency and its consequences

Iodine deficiency can lead to a disorder of thyroid function known as iodine deficiency goiter or goiter. In this disease, the thyroid gland enlarges in order to continue producing sufficient hormones. A goiter can be seen and felt, and in some cases it can cause difficulty swallowing and respiratory problems.

Iodine deficiency can also lead to hypothyroidism, an underactive thyroid in which not enough thyroid hormones are produced. This can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance and slowed metabolism.

Pregnant women and children are particularly susceptible to the effects of iodine deficiency. Iodine is important for fetal brain development, and deficiency during pregnancy can cause intellectual disability and developmental delays in the child.

Iodine supply and recommendations

Iodine supply varies in different parts of the world. In some countries where the soil is low in iodine, widespread iodine deficiency may occur. To improve the iodine status of the population, many countries have introduced iodine supplementation programs, such as iodized salt.

The German Nutrition Society (DGE) recommends a daily iodine intake of 180 micrograms for adults. Pregnant and breastfeeding women have increased needs and should consume 230-260 micrograms per day. For children, the recommendations differ depending on the age group.

Iodine intake can be increased by consuming foods such as sea fish, seafood and iodized table salt. However, in some cases, additional iodine supplementation may be necessary, particularly in people who have increased needs or live in regions with iodine deficiency.

Research on iodine and thyroid function

Research on iodine and thyroid function has shown that adequate iodine intake is critical to maintaining normal thyroid function. A 2014 study examined the iodine status and thyroid function of over 8,000 people in Germany and found that iodine deficiency was widespread. This underlines the importance of sufficient iodine supply.

Other studies have shown that iodine deficiency can not only affect thyroid function, but can also have effects on neurocognitive development and growth. A 2013 systematic review of studies found that iodine supplementation during pregnancy can lead to improvements in children's neurocognitive development potential.

FAQs

1. How does an iodine deficiency manifest itself?

Iodine deficiency can lead to an enlarged thyroid (goiter) and reduced production of thyroid hormones. This can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, sensitivity to cold and slowed metabolism.

2. How can iodine deficiency be avoided?

A balanced diet rich in marine fish, seafood and iodized salt can help meet iodine needs. In some cases, iodine supplementation may be necessary, particularly for pregnant women and people in iodine-deficient regions.

3. Can iodine levels that are too high also be harmful?

Yes, high iodine levels can also be harmful and lead to an overactive thyroid. It is important to meet iodine needs but not to have excessive iodine intake.

4. How can the iodine status be checked?

Iodine status can be determined through blood or urine tests. Your doctor can give you more information and check iodine status.

Conclusion

Iodine is an essential trace element that is essential for healthy thyroid function. Iodine deficiency can lead to reduced production of thyroid hormones and various health problems. Adequate iodine intake is therefore important in order to prevent possible deficiency symptoms. Research has shown that iodine supplementation during pregnancy can help improve the child's neurocognitive development. Talk to your doctor about your iodine needs and possible supplements to ensure you get enough iodine.