Iodine as a nutritional supplement: what you need to know
Iodine is essential for the production of Thyroid hormones And the regulation of the Metabolism. It plays a particularly important role during pregnancy and lactation because it affects the child's brain development. In the case of supplementation, iodine is often offered as potassium iodide or Kelp-based. Iodine is an essential trace element that is necessary for the production of the thyroid hormones, which fulfill numerous important functions in the body, including regulation of metabolism. Sufficient iodine intake is particularly important during pregnancy and lactation, since iodine plays a crucial role in the brain development of the fetus and infant. As a dietary supplement, iodine is often offered in the form of potassium iodide or Kelp-based preparations. Supplementation may be necessary for people who live in areas in which the iodine content in the ground is low and that therefore do not absorb sufficient iodine via normal nutrition. However, it is important to use iodine supplements with caution, since both an iodine deficiency and an iodine surplus can have harmful effects, including the disruption of the thyroid function. An overdose of iodine can lead to hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism or other thyroid diseases. It is therefore crucial to consult a doctor or nutritionist before taking iodine supplements in order to correctly determine the individual needs.
Beware of the supplementation
Although iodine is essential as a nutritional supplement in certain areas, caution is still required. Both an iodine deficiency and an excess of iodine can negatively influence the thyroid function and lead to various diseases.
Before you start with iodine supplementation, it is essential to consult a doctor or nutritionist in order to correctly determine the individual needs and to ensure safe and effective dosage.