Iodine Deficiency Symptoms

Iodine deficiency symptoms usually start showing up when an individual consumes a diet poor in iodine. An important iodine source is seafood, which explains why many people in various parts of the world; especially in inland or mountainous areas, tend to suffer from iodine deficiency and related signs and symptoms. Iodine is an element which is essential for proper thyroid support as it is very important for the functioning of the human thyroid gland. The thyroid hormones Triiodothyronine (T3) and Thyroxine (T4) contain a significant amount of Iodine.

Iodine deficiency leads to insufficient production of the thyroid hormone (Hypothyroidism). This condition further leads to Goiter symptoms and mental retardation; especially in infants. According to the World Health Organization, more than two billion people suffer from iodine deficiency worldwide.

iodine deficiency symptomsThough deficiency of iodine can cause serious problems, it is equally easy to treat. Regular supplementation with iodine or any edible iodine compound promptly solves the problem. Therefore, it is imperative to recognize the early symptoms of iodine deficiency and treat them immediately to avoid negative consequences. The major iodine deficiency symptoms are explained below.

1. Goiter or the enlargement of the thyroid gland is the main symptom of iodine deficiency. The lack of sufficient iodine leads to Hypothyroidism. As a result the thyroid gland gradually expands in order to produce more thyroid hormones leading to goiter. Goiter; if detected early can be treated successfully.

2. Iodine deficiency leads to fatigue, drowsiness and hair-loss. It is also known to cause vision problems (Glaucoma) in many cases.

3. Many parts of the human body like the stomach and the salivary glands require large amounts of iodine. An iodine deficiency therefore leads to symptoms like improper digestion and acidity.

4. Iodine deficiency is also known to play a major part in the formation of cysts in the various parts of the body including the skin, the ovaries etc.

The above mentioned iodine deficiency symptoms can be initially confused with many other diseases and deficiencies such as potassium deficiency, iron deficiency symptoms, and even magnesium deficiency symptoms. Consequently, a blood test remains the most effective diagnostic tool for the detection of iodine deficiency.If you suffer from iodine deficiency symptoms do not worry because it is easily fixed by simply making sure you have foods that contain it such as sea food and at the same time you can take advantage of the many excellent fish oil benefits! Or, you can simply take iodine supplements which should help you cure your iodine deficiency in a matter of days.


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