Iodine is an essential nutrient that regulates the thyroid gland and is used as a skin antiseptic and water purifier. It is crucial for fetal development and can prevent mental retardation. Iodine is also used to treat thyroid cancer, breast cancer, and other health issues. Fish and shellfish are the best sources of iodine.
The chemical element iodine is an essential nutrient with many different health benefits, such as regulating the thyroid gland. Wounds, cuts and bites can be cleansed by using the essential mineral as a skin antiseptic. There are also uses for iodine outside of the human body, such as the element’s utility as a water purifier.
One of the main uses of iodine is as a nutrient. The human body requires iodine for proper function of the thyroid gland and growth of the body. Adults are advised to ingest 150 micrograms of iodine daily, while children require up to 130 micrograms. Pregnant women require the most iodine, at 250 micrograms per day, while children need the least amount of the trace nutrient, at just 90 micrograms per day.
Iodine’s use in regulating the thyroid and the body’s metabolism makes it a common treatment for thyroid cancer. Scientists also use it for various procedures, such as radioactive tracing used to make medical diagnoses. The sterilization of wounds, tools, and body parts in preparation for surgery or for inserting a catheter is also used for iodine.
Other parts of the body, including the mammary and salivary glands, also require iodine. The cervix, eyes, gastric mucosa and other glands also receive iodine. The role of iodine in fetal development is considered crucial, as severe iodine deficiency, common in developing countries, is a preventable cause of mental retardation. In developed nations where food sources are plentiful, this congenital condition is less common. In addition to having vast food sources, many developed nations also ionize their salt and livestock feed, which helps prevent iodine deficiency.
While the extent of the connection isn’t yet known, scientists speculate that there may be a link between iodine and breast cancer. Other female problems, such as ovarian cancer and cysts, can also be prevented through adequate iodine intake. Conjunctivitis can be treated with iodine. Some doctors also prescribe iodine treatments to help clear up vaginal infections.
Treating a common cough is among other uses of iodine. Eye infections are sometimes treated with the mineral antiseptic. Cosmetics and general body health, such as preventing and treating acne and promoting healthy teeth, skin, and hair, are other uses of iodine. Iodine can also be used in a similar way to other antioxidants, such as for cancer prevention.
Fish and shellfish are considered the best sources of iodine; in fact, people with iodine allergies often have trouble eating these foods. Seaweed is a vegetarian alternative. Milk, vegetables, eggs and fruit also contain small amounts of essential nutrients.
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