Sources
Another essential trace element for animals and humans. Most of it is present in the thyroid gland, and the rest in the thyroid hormones triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), our metabolic regulators, in the blood and cells. Iodine occurs naturally in the sea and land areas exposed to sea winds, and is poor or absent in the middle of continents or highland areas, creating the well-known goiter-belts. Food sources of iodine are kelp, fish like haddock and whiting, shrimp and shellfish, and now iodized table salt.
Uses
- The primary use of iodine is to counteract an underactive thyroid, to prevent goiter, and cretinism in newborn babies.
Interactions
Some foods like brassica, cabbage, cassava, ground nuts, kale, mustard greens, rape, soya beans and turnips, may be called anti-thyroid foods for the effect they have. On the other hand, many fast foods were found to contain an astonishing 30 times the recommended dietary allowance (RDA), perhaps because of the use of inexpensive fish oils for frying. Such excessive amounts of iodine in the diet may cause acne flare-ups.
Safety
Excess iodine is unlikely, except under medical treatment with iodine-containing drugs, or possibly a diet based exclusively on fast foods and junk foods.