Iodine Roles

Iodine, a violet minerals, produces hormones from the thyroid gland, promotes normal cell function, prevents goiter, burns excess fats, and promotes healthy hair, skin, nails, and teeth. It is also used to protect against the toxic effects from radioactive materials. The need for iodine is increased during periods of growth, pregnancy, and emotional stress. Excess iodine is excreted through urine.

Iodine Foods

Iodine is common in meat sources such as lobster, oyster, canned salmon, saltwater fish, and shrimp. It is also found it pineapple, raisins, seaweed, and commonly added in salt.

Iodine Deficiency

Deficiency symptoms can include deafness, mental retardation, depressed growth, and delayed sexual development in children. In adults, iodine deficiency may lead to goiter, thyroid cancer, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer's disease. Other symptoms may include dry skin, an enlarged thyroid, neurological problems, chronic fatigue, and reduced immune activity.