Iodine is a naturally occurring mineral that until the 1940’s was routinely used for a number of health concerns/conditions. In the 1920’s iodine was added to table salt to reduce the incidence of goiter (enlarged thyroid gland). Your thyroid gland requires iodine to function normally. Iodine deficiency typically results in low circulating thyroid hormones or hypothyroidism.
Iodine deficiency can also lead to autoimmune disease of the thyroid and may increase the risk of developing certain cancers (thyroid, prostate, breast, endometrial and ovarian cancers). Iodine deficiency is a common world health problem. The most recognized form of deficiency is the goiter. Iodine deficiency is also thought to be the most preventable cause of mental retardation.
Foods rich in iodine include sea vegetables (kelp), shrimp, scallops, eggs, and yogurt. Adults require 150mcg of iodine daily for optimal health.
Dr. Anne Hermann, a holistic internal medicine physician, offers comprehensive nutritional counseling and vitamin testing to her patients. Offices are maintained in Tampa and Saint Petersburg Beach, Florida. Please contact the office at 813-902-9559 for more information or to schedule an appointment.