Function of Iodine:
Iodine is a mineral found in food. This mineral is needed to make thyroid hormones. The hormones created are used to control the body’s metabolism and lots of other important functions. The thyroid hormones are also used for bone and brain development during pregnancy and infancy. This mineral is important for everyone, especially infants and women who are pregnant.
The amount of Iodine needed for your daily intake recommended of the mineral depends on your age:
Life Stage
Recommended Amount (micrograms).
Birth to 6 months
110 mcg
Infants 7–12 months
130 mcg
Children 1–8 years
90 mcg
Children 9–13 years
120 mcg
Teens 14–18 years
150 mcg
Adults
150 mcg
Pregnant teens and women
220 mcg
Breastfeeding teens and women
290 mcg
Food that contain Iodine are:
-Fish: Ex. Cod and tuna, seaweed, shrimp, and other seafood.
-Dairy Products: Ex. Milk, yogurt, cheese
-Products made from Grains: Ex. Bread, cereal.
-Fruits and Vegtables, which contain Iodine, although the amount depends on the Iodine in the soil where they grew and in any fertilizer that was used.
Iodine deficiency:
People who don't get enough iodine cannot make sufficient amounts of thyroid hormone.
In pregnant women, severe iodine deficiency can permanently harm the fetus by causing stunted growth, mental retardation, and delayed sexual development.
Less severe iodine deficiency can cause lower-than-average IQ in infants and children and decrease adults' ability to work and think clearly.
An enlarged thyroid gland, is often the first visible sign of iodine deficiency.
High levels of iodine can cause some of the same symptoms as iodine deficiency, including goiter (an enlarged thyroid gland).
High iodine intakes can also cause thyroid gland inflammation and thyroid cancer.
Can cause burning of the mouth, throat, and stomach; fever; stomach pain; nausea; vomiting; diarrhea; weak