Iodine Deficiency in Hypothyroidism: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Iodine deficiency is a serious health condition which can be life threatening. Iodine is essential for the production of thyroid hormones and also for the proper function of the ovaries, testes and breast.

What is iodine deficiency?

Our organisms does not produce iodine naturally, this is why we need to take this nutrient from our daily diet. When our body does not receive the required amount of iodine, underactive thyroid develops.

Iodine deficiency symptoms

The lack of thyroid hormone leads to symptoms of hypothyroidism. Also, pregnant women who suffer from this deficiency are likely to give birth to children with mental retardation. Symptoms of this deficiency may include:

• Hypothyroidism
• Goiter
• Increased fatigue

• Weight gain
• Depression
• Breast cysts
• Complications during pregnancy
• Miscarriage
• Premature birth
• Mental retardation
• Other birth defects

!Note that iodine deficiency is a serious problem that can affect anyone, at any age.

Iodine deficiency risks

Without the necessary amount of iodine, the thyroid gradually begins to increase. At this point, various nodules can occur. People suffering from this condition may experience problems with breathing and swallowing.

Iodine is extremely important for pregnant and nursing women. This is why sever iodine deficiency is associated with miscarriage, premature birth or birth defects in newborns. Babies born to mothers who have suffered iodine deficiency during birth may encounter serious health problems such as: mental retardation, impaired development and various ocular and hearing disorders.

Iodine deficiency causes

The main cause of iodine deficiency is poor diet that does not provide our body the necessary amount of iodine. Thus, to prevent this deficiency is indicated to include in your daily diet more foods rich in iodine.

The recommended daily intake of Iodine:

– 50-60 micrograms for babies
– 70-100 micrograms for children
– 120 micrograms for women
– 150 micrograms for men
– 150 micrograms for pregnant women
– 170 micrograms for women who are breastfeeding

Natural sources of Iodine

The largest amount of iodine is found in iodized salt. Other important sources of iodine are:

• Bread, table salt with iodine, cheese, milk, soy milk, yogurt, eggs, fish, marine algae, shells, soy sauce, cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower

Also, iodine can be purchased from iodine supplements and multivitamins containing this substance.