In Volgograd Rospotrebnadzor explained how to fill the iodine deficiency

Iodine is the main “fuel” for our thyroid gland. Experts figured out what leads to its shortage and how to properly replenish the body’s reserves without harming themselves, said the Department of Rospotrebnadzor in the Volgograd region.

Silent enemy: what causes a lack of iodine

Our body does not know how to synthesize iodine on its own, we get it exclusively with food and water. The problem is that this element is unevenly distributed on the planet: in the soils of many regions it is critically low. Vegetables and fruits grown on such land cannot cover the daily need of a person.

When the thyroid gland lacks raw materials for the production of hormones, it begins to work for wear, increasing in size - so there is a goiter. But the consequences are much more serious than external unattractiveness. Iodine deficiency provokes infertility in women, increases the risk of autoimmune diseases and even oncology (including breast and thyroid cancer).

Particularly dangerous is the lack of an element for pregnant women. It threatens to increase blood pressure in the mother, and for the fetus is fraught with irreversible disorders in the development of the central nervous system. In severe cases, this leads to mental retardation of the child and increases the risk of perinatal mortality.

How much do we need and where do we get it?

The daily rate of iodine strictly depends on the age and condition of the body. Babies under one year need 70 mcg, children from 1 to 10 years old - 90 mcg, adolescents and adults - 150 mcg. Expectant mothers need already 220 mcg, and lactating women - as much as 290 mcg.

Absolute champions in the content of iodine are seafood: cod, tuna, shrimp and sea kale (kelp). However, there are also “enemies” of learning. Substances-goitrogens contained in soy, as well as in cruciferous vegetables (cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower), can block the absorption of the trace element. Completely abandon these useful products is not worth it, but the diet should be as diverse as possible. The situation is also aggravated by a deficiency of selenium, calcium and smoking.

The Dangerous Overdose and the Golden Rule of Salt

Is it possible to "overeat" iodine? Yeah, and it's just as dangerous. Excess intake (over 600-1000 mcg per day) hits the thyroid gland as hard as deficiency, causing the same symptoms, including goiter growth.

In addition, it is important to remember: dietary supplements with iodine can enter into a dangerous interaction with drugs. For example, taking potassium iodide along with certain pressure medications (ACE inhibitors) or potassium-sparing diuretics can lead to a critical increase in potassium levels in the blood.

The easiest, cheapest and safest method of prevention recognized by the WHO is ordinary iodized salt. It can and should be used by everyone except for people with autoimmune thyroid disease (such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis).

The main secret of efficiency: iodine is a volatile substance and is quickly destroyed by strong heat. Therefore, salt dishes with iodized salt is best at the very end of cooking, when the food is almost ready and removed from the fire. Iodine deficiency is completely preventable, and a balanced diet and the right salt in your kitchen will be a reliable protection for the health of the whole family.