In continuation of our article Iodine, today we’re going to talk about symptoms.
20 symptoms of iodine deficiency.
Iodine is an essential trace element that plays a critical role in human health.
It is an essential component of thyroid hormones, which regulate the metabolism, growth and development of almost every cell in the body.
Without a sufficient amount of iodine, the thyroid gland cannot produce adequate levels of these vital hormones.
Although iodine deficiency is less common in developed countries thanks to iodized salt, millions of people around the world still suffer from iodine deficiency. This deficiency can lead to a wide range of health problems, ranging from mild to severe, and affecting both our physical and mental health. Therefore, it is important to recognize the symptoms of iodine deficiency and take the necessary steps to ensure adequate intake.
20 symptoms of lack of iodine
1. 20 symptoms of iodine deficiency: fatigue and weakness
People with iodine deficiency often experience a constant feeling of exhaustion, even after enough sleep. This fatigue can significantly affect daily activities and productivity.
2. Weight gain
Iodine deficiency can slow down metabolism, leading to unexpected and difficult to explain weight gain. This increase often occurs despite no changes in diet or physical activity.
3. Sensitivity to cold
People with iodine deficiency may experience unusual sensitivity to cold temperatures. They may feel cold even in warm rooms or need extra clothing compared to others.
4. 20 symptoms of iodine deficiency: dry skin
Insufficient iodine intake can lead to dry, flaky or rough skin. This is due to the body’s reduced ability to regulate sweating and maintain skin hydration.
5. Hair loss
Iodine de ficiency can cause hair loss and hair fall. This may be noticeable as a general thinning of the hair or the formation of bald patches on the scalp.
6. 20 symptoms of iodine deficiency: memory and concentration problems
Impaired thyroid function can affect cognitive abilities. People may have difficulty remembering information or maintaining focus on tasks.
7. Depression
Iodine deficiency can contribute to the development of depressive symptoms. This may include a constant feeling of sadness, loss of interest in usual activities or changes in appetite and sleep.
8. 20 symptoms of iodine deficiency: muscle pain and stiffness
Iodine deficiency can lead to muscle weakness, pain and stiffness. This can affect different parts of the body and make physical activity difficult.
9. Swelling of the neck (goiter)
One of the most visible signs of severe iodine deficiency is enlargement of the thyroid gland, more commonly known as goiter. This occurs when the gland enlarges in an attempt to capture more iodine from the blood.
10. 20 symptoms of iodine deficiency: irregular menstrual cycles
In women, iodine de ficiency can cause irregular or heavy periods. This can lead to fertility problems and discomfort during the menstrual cycle.
11. Problems getting pregnant
Iodine deficiency can make it difficult to conceive. And in pregnant women, iodine deficiency can increase the risk of miscarriage or premature birth.
12. 20 symptoms of iodine deficiency: slow heart rate
Iodine de ficiency can lead to bradycardia, or a slow heart rate. This can cause dizziness, fatigue, and in severe cases, heart failure.
13. Constipation
Reduced thyroid function due to iodine deficiency can slow the digestive system, leading to chronic constipation and stomach discomfort.
14. Swelling of the face
People with iodine deficiency may notice swelling of the face, especially around the eyes and cheeks. This is due to the accumulation of fluid in the tissues.
15. Reduced sweating
Iodine de ficiency can affect the body’s ability to sweat normally. This can lead to overheating and discomfort, especially during physical activity or in warm environments. And sweating is the body’s natural detoxification mechanism, if it is absent, toxins linger in the body.
16. Joint pain
Iodine deficiency can contribute to inflammation and joint pain. This can affect large joints such as the knees and shoulders, making them difficult to move.
17. 20 symptoms of iodine deficiency: elevated cholesterol
Iodine deficiency can lead to an increase in LDL (bad) cholesterol levels in the blood. This increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.
18. Reduced immunity
Proper thyroid function is important for the immune system. Iodine deficiency can weaken immunity, making the body more susceptible to infection and disease. And we all know that a healthy immune system is critical to our health. The immune system is directly responsible for our survival.
19. Stunted growth in children:
In children, iodine de ficiency can lead to stunted physical and mental growth. This can affect height, weight and cognitive development.
20. Blood pressure problems
Iodine de ficiency can lead to fluctuations in blood pressure, most often to an increase. This increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, which can be life-threatening!
20 symptoms of iodine deficiency Conclusion
Symptoms of iodine deficiency can be varied and affect many aspects of health. It is important to note that many of these symptoms can also be associated with other health problems, so proper diagnosis by a medical professional is key.
If you recognize any of these symptoms in yourself, do not self-diagnose and do not start self-medicating. Consult a doctor who can order appropriate tests and prescribe proper treatment. In most cases, iodine de ficiency can be corrected through diet changes or supplements.
Prevention of iodine deficiency includes the consumption of iodine-rich foods such as seafood, seaweed, iodized salt and some dairy products. Regular medical checkups and maintaining a balanced diet are key to ensuring adequate iodine intake and maintaining optimal thyroid health.
20 symptoms of iodine deficiency Personal experience
In our family, in addition to a variety of food, I rely on Sea Energy as a natural source of iodine. Especially during the fall-winter period when viruses are rampant and the variety of seasonal foods is limited. For me it is very important to take the elements necessary for the body from a natural, natural source. For this I rely on Sea Energy because all the ingredients in it are natural, not artificially created in a lab. Our bodies know the difference between natural ingredients and artificially created ingredients. That’s how rich and diverse my favorite Sea Energy is:
Brown algae (Ascophyllum Nodosum)
AquaSource uses only the finest organic wild seaweed, Ascophyllum Nodosum, harvested from hundreds of islands off the coast of Norway.
Only fresh and live wild plants are collected. They are cleaned, air dried and immediately harvested for storage. On a per gram basis, seaweed contains 200 times more iron than beet leaves, the most iron-rich vegetable grown on land.
They also contain 100 times more iodine than any “earthy” vegetable and about 14 times more calcium than cow’s milk.
Green algae (Dunaliella Salina)
known as the richest dietary source of betacarotene (a precursor of vitamin A).
On a weight basis, they contain over 200 times more betacarotene than carrots. Other carotenoids contained in them are alpha carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin and cryptoxanthin.
They are rich in chlorophyll, polysaccharides, minerals, vitamins and essential fatty acids such as omega-3 and omega-6.
Red algae (Lithothamnion Sp.)
These organic algae are harvested from the unpolluted, mineral-rich bottom of the Atlantic Ocean.
AquaSource Algae (blue-green algae) – Our base product has been added to reach even greater nutritional support for the body.
Benefits – naturally provided by the ingredients
- Reducing fatigue and exhaustion.
- Supports the normal functioning of the nervous and immune systems.
- Helps mental activity.
- Helps increase energy and vitality.
- Helps the work and maintenance of muscles, bones and teeth.
- An excellent source of the required daily amount of iodine, which contributes to normal thyroid function and cognitive function.
Health claims approved by EFSA:
- Vitamins B12, B5 and vitamin C contribute to reducing fatigue and exhaustion.
- Vitamin B12 and vitamin C contribute to the normal functioning of the nervous and immune systems.
- Vitamin B5 contributes to normal mental activity.
- Vitamin C – for the normal formation of collagen in the skin and for the release of energy in the body.
- Calcium contributes to normal muscle function and the maintenance of normal bones and teeth.
- Iron – for the normal activity of the immune system and the formation of red blood cells.
- Iron and iodine – for normal cognitive function.
- Iodine contributes to normal thyroid function.
Incorporating Sea Energy into my family’s daily routine, I am confident that I have done the best and we can face the autumn-winter period with ease.
I hope you found this article interesting and useful, I created it with a lot of love.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact me for a consultation
Gergana Ivanova 0988850787