Iodine & its Deficiency
Iodine Deficiency Disorders or IDD is the most common cause of preventable brain damage and mental retardation in the world. It is also known to cause goitre, decrease child survival and weaken growth and development. In pregnant women, a lack of iodine usually causes stillbirths, miscarriages and other complications. Children with Iodine Deficiency Disorders may grow up into listless, stunted, mentally retarded individuals who are incapable of normal movements, speech or hearing.
A teaspoon of iodine is all a person requires during his or her lifetime. However, the thyroid gland does not have the capacity to amass this amount, so small amounts of iodine must be eaten regularly through a balanced diet over time.
Prevention:
Even though Iodine Deficiency Disorders cannot be cured, they can be easily prevented. This is done through the consumption of foods rich in iodine such as:
Iodine Deficiency Disorders or IDD is the most common cause of preventable brain damage and mental retardation in the world. It is also known to cause goitre, decrease child survival and weaken growth and development. In pregnant women, a lack of iodine usually causes stillbirths, miscarriages and other complications. Children with Iodine Deficiency Disorders may grow up into listless, stunted, mentally retarded individuals who are incapable of normal movements, speech or hearing.
A teaspoon of iodine is all a person requires during his or her lifetime. However, the thyroid gland does not have the capacity to amass this amount, so small amounts of iodine must be eaten regularly through a balanced diet over time.
Prevention:
Even though Iodine Deficiency Disorders cannot be cured, they can be easily prevented. This is done through the consumption of foods rich in iodine such as:
- Iodized or iodated salt
- Seafood and Seaweed
- Eggs, Meat and Dairy Products
- Cereals and Green Leafy Vegetables (depending on the amount of iodine present in the soil they were grown in)
- Iodine Supplements (usually recommended for pregnant women)
Related Article :
Thyroid
Obesity
Source :http://india.gov.in/citizen/health/iodine_deficiency_new.php
