Iodine

Iodine - an element from the sea

Iodine is a trace element that we need for proper growth. About 60% of the iodine in our body is stored in the thyroid, from where hormones are secreted that control our metabolism. This also explains the important regulatory role it has for our organization.



Natural sources of iodine

Iodine is found in shellfish, deep-water white fish, and algae, especially brown algae. Plant sources include beans, garlic, sesame seeds, spinach, soybeans, chard and turnips.

Iodine in the body

The main organ that uses iodine is the thyroid gland. 70-80% of the body's iodine is stored there. Iodine is also found in smaller amounts in muscle, blood and ovaries. Low iodine levels cause hypothyroidism. Iodine deficiency can cause enlargement of the thyroid gland, and an extremely enlarged thyroid gland is called a goitre. Correspondingly, goitre can also be caused by too much iodine.