Home / Health Insurance / Wellness Corner / Iodine Deficiency – Signs and Symptoms ( EST READ TIME: 2 minutes )

Important Signs and Symptoms of Iodine Deficiency

Iodine is an essential micronutrient which is necessary for the synthesis of thyroid hormones. Although required in small amounts, it must be obtained through your diet because the body cannot produce it. The deficiency of this nutrient has numerous detrimental impacts on growth and development. Read on to know more.

Signs & Symptoms of Iodine Deficiency

Here are the top 10 iodine deficiency symptoms:

1. Swelling in the Neck

This is called a goiter and it is the most common symptom of an iodine deficiency. It occurs when your thyroid gland is forced to make thyroid hormones when there is a low supply of iodine in the body which causes the cells to grow and multiply.

2. Unexpected Weight Gain

This is because thyroid hormones help control the speed of your metabolism, which is the process by which your body converts food into energy and heat

3. Fatigue and Weakness

Low thyroid hormone levels, which occur in cases of iodine deficiency, may cause your energy levels to plummet and leave you feeling weak.

4. Hair Loss

Thyroid hormones help control the growth of hair follicles. When the thyroid gland is unable to produce enough thyroid hormone due to low levels of iodine, it cannot produce new hair follicles.

5. Dry, Flaky skin

This is one of the common iodine deficiency symptoms. Thyroid hormones, which contain iodine, help your skin cells regenerate. When thyroid hormone levels are low, this regeneration doesn’t occur as often, possibly leading to dry, flaky skin.

6. Feeling colder than usual

Iodine helps generate body heat, so low levels of it may leave you feeling colder than usual.

7. Affects Cognitive Functions

An iodine deficiency at any age may cause you to struggle to learn and remember things.

8. Changes in Heart Rate

Too little of iodine could cause your heart to beat slower than usual, while too much of it could cause your heart to beat faster than usual. A severe iodine deficiency may cause an abnormally slow heart rate which may leave you feeling weak, fatigued, dizzy and at risk of fainting.

9. Irregularities in Menstrual Cycle

Heavy and irregular menstrual bleeding may occur as a result of an iodine deficiency

10. Problems during Pregnancy

Not consuming enough iodine throughout pregnancy and lactation may cause side effects for both the mother and baby. An iodine deficiency may cause severe side effects, especially for the baby, such as stunted growth and brain development.

Recommended Daily Intake (RDI)

The recommended daily intake (RDI) is 150 mcg per day. However, pregnant or breastfeeding women need more. Pregnant women need 220 mcg daily, while lactating women need 290 mcg daily

Sources of Iodine

There are very few good sources of iodine in the diet. The foods below are excellent sources of iodine:

● Seaweed

● Cod Fish

● Tuna fish

● Shrimp

● Eggs

● Yoghurt

● Cheddar cheese

● Milk with reduced fat

● Dried Prunes

● Iodized Salt

Conclusion

Iodine deficiencies are very common and can lead to serious complications. Watch out for any swelling, sudden weight gain, fatigue, or other symptoms of iodine deficiency and consult a doctor. Incorporating iodine into your diet is the best way to prevent complications.

Sources: medicalnewstoday, healthline.com

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

How to Avoid Vitamin B12 Deficiency - Foods to Eat and Avoid

7 foods to keep you hydrated

Super iron rich food for pregnant women

Heart-Healthy Diet - Protect your Heart

Feeling Older Here Are Some Ways to Embrace It

Published on November 09, 2022