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Explanation:
What is iodine deficiency?
You need a certain amount of iodine in your body in order for it to make a chemical known as thyroid hormone. Thyroid hormone controls your metabolism and other important body functions.
Low levels of iodine are not the only cause of low thyroid function. But a lack of iodine can cause an abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland, known as a goiter, and other thyroid problems. In children, it can cause mental disabilities.
Your body doesn’t naturally make iodine, so the only way to get this nutrient is through your diet. Iodine is found in many types of foods. It’s most concentrated in foods like:
•fish
•eggs
•nuts
•meats
•bread
Iodine deficiency affects about 2 billion people worldwide. It’s most common in developing countries where people may lack access to enough healthy food. But it can also affect people in developed countries who lack an adequate diet or whose bodies don’t correctly process iodine.
What are the signs of iodine deficiency?
Low levels of thyroid hormones (hypothyroidism)
Hypothyroidism typically causes symptoms that can include:
•fatigue
•increased sensitivity to cold
•constipation
•dry skin
•weight gain
•puffy face
•muscle weakness
•elevated blood cholesterol levels
•pain or stiffness in the muscles and joints
•slowed heart rate
•thinning hair
•depression
•poor memory
•a heavier-than-normal period in menstruating women
Iodine deficiency treatment
Iodine deficiency is best corrected by a healthy diet. If your diet alone is not supplying enough iodine, you may want to consider adding an iodine supplement. People who may not be getting enough iodine through food often include:
•vegetarians
•vegans
•pregnant women
Iodine supplements containing potassium are the most readily absorbed by the body. Look for supplements that contain potassium iodide and potassium iodate. Don’t take supplements in excess of 150 mcg per day. This could cause an iodine overload, which is also harmful to the thyroid.
Most people with iodine deficiency can fix their health issues by changing their diet and adding supplementation.
People with myxedema require hospitalization. At the hospital, doctors will administer intravenous fluids and other stabilizing treatments. They will also administer thyroid hormones to correct the condition. After a person with myxedema is stable, the doctor will monitor their thyroid function and determine if a change in diet to ensure they are consuming enough iodine will keep their hormone levels stable.
What is the outlook for iodine deficiency?
If caught early, iodine deficiency can be completely reversed with few to no side effects. However, if it’s caught after complications arise, many complications — especially in children — can be permanent. But even if complications have developed after iodine deficiency, making sure you get enough iodine going forward can prevent complications from getting worse.
