Why Iodine Matters

Introduction to Iodine

Iodine, the heaviest mineral, is one of the most important nutrients needed by a human body in small amounts. 

Iodine is one of the most important minerals that are found in the human body. It is needed in our body for the production of thyroid hormone that controls metabolism, development and growth. One of the major health concerns around the world is Iodine deficiency, because this deficiency can lead to many health issues such as goiter, hypothyroidism and impaired mental functioning. To ensure the right amount of Iodine in our body, it is essential to take iodine-rich foods such as iodized salt, seaweed and seafood.

Role of Iodine in Human Health

• Thyroid Hormone Production: Thyroid hormones T3(Thyroxine) and T4(Triiodothyronine) are produced in our body by the help of Iodine. These thyroid hormones control several body functions such as metabolism, body development and growth.
• Metabolism: The rate that our body burns calories and converts food into energy is called metabolism and this function is also controlled by Iodine.
• Growth and Development: During growth years that are childhood to adolescence, the brain and body both need Iodine for growth and development.
• Pregnancy and Fetal Development: Ample amount of Iodine consumption is important for proper development of a healthy fetus during pregnancy. Deficiency of Iodine may lead to birth defects and other complications.

Importance of Iodine: 

Iodine is a very important mineral since iodine deficiency can cause a lot of health concerns such as goiter, thyroid problems and intellectual disabilities. Overall maintenance of good health, body functioning and cognitive development especially during pregnancy, fetal, childhood and adolescence can only be achieved with adequate intake of Iodine. 

Needed Amount of Iodine 

150 micrograms (mcg) per day for most adults

220 mcg per day for pregnant women

290 mcg per day for breastfeeding women

Sources of Iodine in India: Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian

Vegetarian Indian Food is severely low in Iodine.  Vegetarian sources of Iodine in Indian cuisine are limited to dairy, fruits found in coastal areas and seaweed. Non vegetarian sources include eggs and Seafood.

Salt Iodisation Program in INDIA

The Salt Iodisation Program (SIP) is a Government initiative for iodine deficiency and is very important for India. The SIP makes sure that all salt we eat has iodine added to it. This helps us stay healthy and prevents problems like goiter and brain damage. In India especially in rural areas, deficiency of this micronutrient affects millions of people. To eradicate this deficiency SIP was introduced by the Government of India. The government has made it mandatory for all the edible salt sold in India to be iodized as the majority of the population can access salt and it is a day to day need of all households. This program heavily impacted the eradication of deficiency of iodine. This deficiency declined along with its goiter and other related problems as well.

Also Read: Are Different Salts Healthy?

References:

https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iodine-Consumer/#:~:text=Iodine%20is%20a%20mineral%20found,development%20during%20pregnancy%20and%20infancy
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iodine
https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iodine-HealthProfessional
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-35/iodine
https://www.healthline.com/health/iodine-uses
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002421.htm
https://saltcomindia.gov.in/SIP_NIDCCP_Iodised_Program.aspx

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