Iodine and Global Iodine deficiency disorders

We often hear about Iodine, especially in the television adverts in India. This blog will help us understand as to what exactly iodine is, and also what consequences we may face due to iodine deficiency.

Iodine is a natural element & is an important nutrient. It is highly important for human growth & development. Iodized salt is common salt which contains iodine compound. Average daily need of iodine for an average adult is 150 micrograms. Pregnant ladies require more iodine as compared to normal ladies as the effects of deficiency of iodine are the most severe in pregnant ladies & their babies

Iodine deficiency disorders or (IDD) are major global public health issue. Currently, 1/3^rd world population is at risk of IDD. As per WHO almost 54 countries are iodine-deficient yet. Iodine is micro nutrient that is needed for human growth & development.

Deficiency of iodine can result in following disorders:-

• Enlargement of thyroid gland
• Neuro muscular weakness & spasticity or muscle stiffness
• Mental illness- mental retardation, subnormal illness, brain damage, impaired cognitive growth in kids
• Endemic cretinism (stunted mental & physical growth)
• Congenital abnormalities like deaf-mutism & dwarfism
• Still birth & spontaneous abortion by pregnant ladies
• Defect in hearing, vision & speech

The most common source of iodine is salt, but it can also be traced in below food:

• Eggs
• Milk
• Seaweed
• Sea fish
• Shellfish
• Meat &
• Cereal grains

Low cost iodine/ salt testing kit is available in market. Using the kit we could determine the iodine content in our salt. Non iodized salt is banned in market.

Iodine has some advantages. It is good for hair. Iodine deficiency can result in hair loss. Adequate iodine can help in boosting our metabolism. Iodine is not expensive too.

21^st October is marked and observed every year as Global IDD Iodine Deficiency Disorders Prevention Day or the World Iodine Deficiency Day The goal of observing World Iodine deficiency day to spread awareness about adequate usage of iodine & to also highlight the results of deficiency of iodine.