Iodine is an essential trace element that is vital for smooth growth and functioning of the human body and mind. Iodine deficiency in children or in adults can lead to a number of complications and hence it is important to ensure that your body is regularly getting the exact amount of iodine it needs. However, keep in mind that we do not need a lot of iodine for daily consumption, but only a trace amount of it can be sufficient to serve the purpose. Around 60% of iodine in our body remains stored in the thyroid gland and this mineral has a direct impact on the functioning of this gland, which controls a number of processes in the body.
Smooth functioning of the thyroid gland is vital not only to ensure a proper body weight but also for good memory and overall well-being and the proper functioning of thyroid is directly related with iodine concentration in the body. Studies have proved that iodine deficiency can even lead to cancer. Apart from all that, iodine plays a vital role in utilization of various other minerals, like silicon and calcium in the body. In this article we will take a look at how important iodine is for health. Read on to know,
Iodine regulates proper metabolic rate
Iodine has a direct implication in the functioning of the thyroid gland because it helps in the processes of production of different hormones that are related with the metabolism of the body. Deficiency of iodine in the body will lead to improper or less secretion of these hormones, which is sure to retard the metabolism in the body as well as the metabolic rate. The metabolic rate of the body is not only related with the body weight, but it also directly influences the efficiency of the body and the systems in performing their tasks.
Iodine deficiency can lead to sleep disorder as well as cardiovascular problems, because the hormones produced by the thyroid gland controls most of the crucial mechanisms of the body, and when there is a deficiency of iodine the hormones are not produced or become less effective to complete their functions properly.
Promotes cognitive ability
One of the most important functions served by iodine in the body is to promote the functioning and efficiency of the brain. Studies have proved that a proper iodine level in the body is vital for proper functioning of the brain and iodine deficiency has been directly related with mental retardation and degeneration. Iron deficiency in children can seriously hamper the growth of the brain cells introducing neural abnormalities. For effective and efficient cognitive abilities iodine plays an important role.
Gives more energy
As iodine has a direct implication on the metabolic rate of the body, hence it plays an important part in energy production from the food. Iodine deficiency can give rise to physical weakness and lethargy and can actually make you inactive as well as less efficient at work. A proper iodine level in the body ensures that the food you take in is properly burnt to produce energy that your body can use for smooth functioning and repairing work.
Regulates growth in children
Iodine plays the most important role in growth of children. Iodine deficiency can lead to hyperthyroidism which can result into growth retardation in kids of the growing age. Iodine ensures proper health and functioning of the thyroid gland, which produces all the hormones that regulates growth in the body, hence deficiency of iodine is directly related to growth retardation in children.
Iodine boosts the immunity system
Iodine also has a vital role in boosting the immunity system of the body. Just like Vitamin C, it works as a scavenger of free-radicals in the body and gives antioxidant benefits by boosting the abilities of other antioxidants. A healthy and strong immunity system is the key to a healthy life, free from common infections and diseases. Some studies also suggest that iodine might help in preventing the brain cells from oxidative damage.
Iodine is anti-carcinogenic
Iodine can not only fight but also prevents cancer. It has strong anti-carcinogenic properties and studies have shown that it can shrink the cancer cells considerably. Iodine has the ability to force the cancerous cells to undergo programmed cell death or apoptosis and also helps in replacing the cancerous cells with new disease free cells. Iodine has been found to be highly effective in controlling breast cancer. It is considered as an effective mineral with the ability to fight cancer and prevent the growth of tumors in the body.
Promotes reproductive health
Iodine has an important role in the growth and maturity of the reproductive organs in the body. Proper amount of iodine is also vital during pregnancy in order to ensure proper neural growth of the baby. This mineral ensures proper functioning of the reproductive organs as well, and iodine deficiency has also been linked with infertility in women.
Prevents goiter
Iodine deficiency is the primary cause of the goiter disease which can lead to several health conditions. In order to prevent goiter, it is really important to consume adequate amount of iodine regularly along with other vitamins and minerals.
Iodine helps in getting read of toxins
Another function of iodine in the body is related to toxin removal. This mineral helps in flushing out heavy metals like lead, fluoride and mercury from the body, which might lead to many other health conditions unless removed. Iodine has also been found to remove some of the biological toxins from the body and it also offers some anti bacterial benefits against some particular bacterial strains.
Offers protection from radiation
Another unique benefit of iodine is that it has protective abilities against radiation. It gives the body protection from the harmful effects of radiation to a great extent, which has made it an important mineral for use in patients undergoing radiation therapy. It helps in recovery of these patients and also ensures overall well being.
Promotes healthy nails, hair and teeth
Iodine plays a vital role in formation of healthy skin and hairs. It is a vital element that can give you shiny skin. Iodine has also been related with hair growth and can promote better health of your nails as well and teeth as well.
