Why is iodine so important for the body? When is it worth supplementing this element?

Iodine is a very important element, known to promote thyroid health. Although experts talk about it a lot, the effects are far from what is expected. According to estimates, iodine deficiency may affect up to 2 billion people worldwide. Europe is at the forefront in terms of the number of inhabitants affected by an insufficient supply of this element. Iodine supplementation is sometimes necessary and should be taken continuously. What is worth knowing about iodine?

Iodine – properties and effects on the body

Iodine is an element that is one of the essential bioactive components of the diet. It is not stored in the body and must be supplied with food. Unfortunately, this microelement is relatively rare in nature - it is found in the air and soil, but its content varies depending on the area. However, large amounts of this element are found in seawater and therefore in the organisms that live in it (fish, seafood, seaweed).

Potassium iodide has a protective effect in inflammatory processes. It supports the nervous system in its proper functioning and supports the overall condition of the body. The element is involved in the synthesis of thyroid hormones - it maintains the proper activity, structure and functions of the organ.

How important is iodine?

The importance of iodine in human life is evidenced by the 1996 decree of the Minister of Health on the mandatory iodisation of table salt. Although subsequent studies have shown the effectiveness of these measures, the current situation is not so positive.

Experts recommend reducing table salt intake as a risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease. However, this threatens to reduce iodine supply at the population level. How can a consensus be reached?

Iodine during pregnancy and lactation

Iodine is very important during pregnancy and lactation. During this time, the demand for this substance increases up to twofold. This is a result of foetal development, an increase in thyroid hormones and iodine-transporting globulin concentrations, and increased renal filtration. Unfortunately, statistics show that only about 50% of pregnant women receive the recommended daily dose of iodine. The problem is so serious that it has become the focus of attention of the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the international organisation Iodine Global Network.

Is it really that bad? Iodine deficiency causes a number of serious disorders:

• for the foetus:
  • birth defects
  • increased perinatal mortality
  • endemic cretinism

• for newborns:
  • enlarged thyroid gland
  • hypothyroidism
  • endemic mental retardation

It sounds really bad, but it is worth remembering that deficiencies can be prevented.

Iodine and the thyroid gland

The thyroid gland is one of the most important organs in the human endocrine system – it is responsible for many important functions. Iodine, in turn, is a basic component of thyroid hormones – thyroxine and triiodothyronine, which regulate metabolic pathways and have a decisive influence on brain development. It is also extremely important for the uninterrupted growth and maturation of cells.

The proper development of the heart, kidneys, muscles, pituitary gland and the entire nervous system depends on the concentration of thyroxine and triiodothyronine in the blood. The thyroid gland is more important than it might seem, and its function is primarily related to the adequate level of iodine in the body.

Potassium iodide for radiation. What is Lugol's solution?

When talking about iodine, one of its most well-known properties, which relates to radiation, cannot be overlooked.

Nuclear accidents can cause the release of radioactive iodine into the environment, increasing the risk of developing aggressive thyroid cancer in people exposed to radiation. The uptake of this dangerous form of the element is higher in people with iodine deficiency. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the substance as a blocking agent in radiation emergencies involving the release of radioactive iodine.

Does it actually work?

Although there have not been many incidents of this type, it is certainly worth mentioning the situation in 1986, when the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant disaster occurred. In Poland, Lugol's solution, potassium iodide, a stable iodine salt preparation, was used at that time. The product works in a simple way: the thyroid gland becomes saturated with a ‘safe’ element and is unable to absorb any other iodine molecules for a certain period of time.

The actions of the authorities at the time were effective – the incidence of thyroid cancer did not increase significantly in the following years. In areas where iodine prophylaxis was not used (such as Belarus and Ukraine), the incidence, especially among children and young people, increased rapidly.

Iodine and symptoms of deficiency

Long-term iodine deficiency has a huge impact on the thyroid gland. It leads to enlargement of the organ, known as goitre, which is often associated with pressure on the windpipe and oesophagus and the formation of a visible lump at the base of the neck. Iodine deficiency is considered a global public health problem. How to recognise a deficiency? Several symptoms may indicate low levels of this element in the body:

• lack of energy
• feeling tired
• unexplained weight gain
• dry, damage-prone skin
• extreme sensitivity to cold, despite normal temperature
• hair loss
• mood swings

Iodine - effects of deficiency

A set of disorders caused by iodine deficiency affects all stages of life. In children, it is often associated with enlargement and dysfunction of the thyroid gland, impaired brain function and delayed physical development. And what are the consequences for adults?

• enlargement of the thyroid gland - significantly increases the incidence of diseases of the organ, including cancer
• hypothyroidism - associated with hypertrophy and changes in the structure of the gland
• impaired higher brain functions - i.e. the ability to learn, remember and associate

Advanced hypothyroidism can also lead to infertility.

Can you overdose on iodine?

In some cases, chronic iodine poisoning can occur as a result of inappropriate supplementation. However, it is important to remember that this can only happen when the daily intake exceeds the recommended dose by at least 20 times. What are the symptoms of excessive iodine levels in the body?

• metallic taste in the mouth
• increased saliva secretion
• stomach irritation
• acne lesions on the skin

Iodine used in accordance with generally accepted recommendations is considered by experts to be a safe substance.

Iodine - contraindications

A sufficient supply of iodine is essential for the proper functioning of the body. Although supplementation works well in many cases, there are certain contraindications. These include, first and foremost, hyperthyroidism or suspected thyroid cancer. Iodine consumed in doses considered safe may also be harmful to people with autoimmune thyroid diseases (such as Hashimoto's or Graves' disease).

Iodine supplements may interact with certain medications, including thyrostatic agents, ACE inhibitors and diuretics.

Thyroid health begins with the building block of the gland - iodine. However, sufficient levels of this element will benefit many systems in the body, protecting and supporting their functions. Although deficiencies are common and pose a major problem, the solution is extremely simple and accessible to everyone – an adequate supply can prevent a whole range of problems.