Iodine
Type: Mineral
Iodine is an essential mineral needed for the healthy thyroid function.
Thyroid gland uses iodine to produce two main hormones: Triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) that play many important roles in the body such as metabolism, growth and development, central and peripheral nervous systems and body temperature.
An iodine deficiency, known as hypothyroidism, may cause serious health issues such as low thyroid hormones (hypotyroidism) and enlargement of thyroid (goiter). Whereas too much iodine, known as hyperthyroidism, may also lead to problems similar to hypotyroidism.
Common food sources rich in iodine include kelp, poultry, seafood and fortified salt.