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Iodine deficiency. How could it manifest itself?

Iodine deficiency is linked to many unpleasant health problems. Iodine is part of the hormones secreted by our thyroid gland.

However, most of us need to get iodine in food as well. Iodine is a relatively rare trace element and is more abundant in seawater, so to avoid possible deficiency it is recommended to eat marine fish and algae.

What are symptoms of possible iodine deficiency? And what foods are rich in iodine? Browse the gallery to discover them.

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Iodine deficiency. How could it manifest itself?
Iodine deficiency is linked to many unpleasant health problems. Iodine is part of the hormones secreted by our thyroid gland. However, most of us need to get iodine in food as well. Iodine is a relatively rare trace element and is more abundant in seawater, so to avoid possible deficiency it is recommended to eat marine fish and algae. What are symptoms of possible iodine deficiency? And what foods are rich in iodine? Browse the gallery to discover them.
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The groups most at risk for iodine deficiency
The groups most at risk for iodine deficiency are women and children. During pregnancy, a woman needs an increased intake of minerals and vitamins, including iodine. If there is not enough iodine, significant harm to the fetus can occur.
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Impact on intelligence in children
Iodine deficiency in children has an impact on intelligence. A group of hormones produced by the thyroid gland that contain iodine are responsible for the development of our locomotor system, as well as the development of the brain and other organs. The lack of this hormone can therefore affect intelligence.
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How is iodine deficiency manifested?
Iodine deficiency often manifests itself as a so-called endemic goiter. It is associated with fatigue, coldness, loss of vitality, obesity, tendencies to depression, but also hearing disorders.
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Worsening of skin and hair quality
Lack of iodine could also worsen the quality of skin, nails, teeth and hair.
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How much iodine do we need?
The amount of iodine that our body needs is different, depending on age, growth, nutrition, sex, weight, but also the ambient temperature. We consider one to two micrograms per kilogram of body weight to be a sufficient and safe amount of iodine.
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Iodized salt. A solution?
Since the resources of fish, seafood and seaweed are not available everywhere, we have iodized salt available since the 50s. However, the solution is definitely not to add more iodized salt, because salt in turn burdens our body with sodium.
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What foods are rich in iodine?
If we have iodine deficiency, it is good to eat sea fish and algae, because the concentration of iodine is the highest in seawater. In addition to marine sources, iodine is also found in dairy products, mineral water, eggs, some vegetables such as spinach and broccoli, champignons or even chocolate.
wine, beer, sparkling wine, champagne
19/04/2024
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