All articles tagged with #iodine deficiency
Iodine deficiency can lead to serious health issues beyond thyroid problems, including increased cancer risk, heart disease, hormone imbalances, and metabolic issues. Low iodine levels can also affect reproductive health, brain function, immune system, and children's development, highlighting the importance of maintaining sufficient iodine intake through diet or supplements.
While excessive sodium intake can lead to health issues, table salt remains a reliable source of iodine, a crucial nutrient for thyroid hormone production. Iodine deficiency is uncommon but can still affect certain individuals, including older adults. Symptoms of low iodine levels include weight gain, fatigue, memory issues, and an enlarged thyroid gland. However, getting enough iodine can be challenging as it is naturally found in only a few foods, and changes in farming practices and food processing have affected iodine content. Packaged foods typically do not contain iodized salt, and fancier salts like sea or Himalayan salts are not good sources. It is recommended to use iodized salt in moderation and increase intake of iodine-rich foods like whole-wheat bread, cod, seaweed, oysters, Greek yogurt, milk, and eggs.