Q. What is iodine?A. is a non-metallic, blackish-grey element that is essential for good health. In its free form, iodine is a gas, However, in nature, it is found as a compound.
Q. What role does iodine play in the body?
A. Iodine is necessary for the formation of two hormones produced by the thyroid gland - the largest of the endocrine glands in the body, located in the front and sides of the neck around the windpipe. The thyroid gland produces hormones which are vita! for growth, reproduction, nerve formation and mental health, bone formation, the manufacture of proteins, and a cell's oxidative processes. These hormones serve as the major regulators of energy metabolism in the body.
Q. Is iodine used to treat any diseases?
A. Iodine is used to treat iodine-deficiency goitre and to protect the thyroid gland against radiation damage.
Q. Radiation damage? From X-rays
A. No, from a nuclear accident or in the event of nuclear war. Radioactive iodines are released into the environment following such events. They can enter the body and accumulate in the thyroid gland, where they remain for varying periods of time. Radioactive iodine can cause thyroid cancer. However, loading up the thyroid gland -with non-radioactive iodine prior to or as soon as possible after a nuclear accident can reduce radio-iodine uptake by the thyroid to practically nil.
Q Is iodine used for any other health problems?
A Some researchers believe that fibrocystic problems of the breast - painful swelling and lumpiness prior to menstruation - are the result of iodine deficiency. One Canadian study found that the majority of women with ; painful, lumpy breasts experienced complete relief from .. their symptoms after being treated with iodine for four : months. Most doctors, however, believe more research needs to be done in this area before iodine can be recommended for this problem.
Some iodine-containing compounds, such as supersaturated potassium iodine, are helpful in breaking up dogged mucus in breathing tubes. These are drugs that require a doctor's prescription. Iodine is also a mild antiseptic.
Sources
Kelp, fish, shrimp, lobster, clams, oysters, the thyroid glands of animals, and iodized salt
Signs of Deficiency
Chronic fatigue, apathy, dry skin, intolerance to cold, weight gain and enlargement of the thyroid.
Cretinism is a serious physical and mental disorder due to severe iodine deficiency from birth; It was once common in Switzerland and still occurs in Bangladesh.
It can be entirely eliminated by adding small amounts of iodine to the diet, usually in salt.
Risks for Deficiency
A milk-free or salt-restricted diet, or one lacking in seafood.
Possible/e Toxicity Problems
Elemental iodine - the kind that's used as an antiseptic — can be deadly even in amounts as small as 2 grams. Supplements contain a less toxic form, usually potassium iodine, either by itself or in combination with other vitamins and minerals. Several milligrams daily of iodine compounds have been linked with thyroid problems or inflammation of the salivary glands. If a person needs iodine, he or she should be under medical care and the iodine should be specifically prescribed.
