Iodine And Iodine Supplements For Thyroid

What iodine rich diet can be taken for the treatment of thyroid?

Iodine is a trace mineral, which is required for the normal cell metabolism. Iodine is essential for the synthesis of thyroid hormones and for normal thyroid function. Thyroxine (T4) and tri iodo thyronine (T3) are the two hormones, released by thyroid gland. These hormones are a by product of the amino acid tyrosine, in conjunction with iodide. Three iodine atoms are present in tri iodo thyronine, whereas four iodine atoms are present in thyroxine. Regulation of energy utilization and growth takes place with iodine.
The requirement of iodine is very less, in comparison to the other nutrients. The recommended allowance for iodine in adolescents, men and women is about 150 microgram each. For older children, in the range of 9 to 13 years, it is 120 micrograms, whereas for younger children, between one and eight years, it is only around 90 micrograms. The levels increase, in case of pregnant and nursing mothers (175 and 200 micrograms respectively).

Iodine Rich Foods And Iodine Nutrition

• Ensure the daily requirement of iodine, through certain foods in the diet.
• A moderate quantity of iodized salt is a good alternative for non-iodized salt. About 95 micrograms of iodine are available in quarter teaspoon of iodized salt.
• Multivitamin supplements are recommended, in case of dietary inadequacy.
• Natural iodine is obtained from a bi-weekly consumption of seafood. They can also be consumed, thrice a week. Perch, haddock, cod and sea bass are good marine sources of iodine. Care is necessary, with the consumption of seafood, as contamination with heavy metals, such as mercury or any other chemical, is possible.
• Certain vegetables, which are grown in soil dine rich oil are helpful.
• Adequate amounts of iodine are also present in eggs, dairy products and seaweed.

Seaweed, such as kelp and iodized salt are the only options for iodine, in vegetarians.
Deficiency of iodine results in hypothyroidism or goiter. Poor iodine in the soil results in the enlargement of the thyroid cells and the gland, in turn. Cretinism, with mental and physical retardation is common with iodine deficiency. Improper iodine intake also results in fatigue, poor reflexes, dry skin and hair loss. Low intelligence levels, stunted growth and diminished intelligence are also common.
Thyroid imbalances are possible due to an array of reasons, such as genetic predisposition, poor dietary regimen, adrenal stress (thereby causing imbalance in the cortisol levels), insulin resistance, autoimmune response (Graves disease and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis) and imbalance in the estrogen and progesterone levels.