Attention: Cabbage and Spinach Eaters Unite!
Attention Those Who Eat Cabbage and Spinach: Importance of Iodine Intake
Iodine is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy body. It is recommended that adults consume 150 mcg of iodine per day, with higher amounts for pregnant and breastfeeding women. To prevent iodine deficiency or eliminate existing deficiencies, it is important to include iodine-rich foods in the diet.
Addressing the issue, Anadolu Health Center Internal Medicine Specialist Dr. Eyyüp Kenan Özok highlighted the importance of iodized salt in controlling iodine deficiency. He mentioned that iodized salt is effective in preventing deficiencies, but it can be affected by heat, moisture, and light. Therefore, it is essential to store iodized salt in a lidded container, in a refrigerator, and in a dry environment.
Dr. Özok also suggested adding salt to meals after cooking or at the table to maximize its iodine content. In addition to iodized salt, he emphasized that other sources of iodine include seaweeds, seafood such as cod, tuna, and shrimp, dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese, and eggs.
Dr. Özok identified low iodine intake, pregnancy, smoking, fluoride and chlorinated water, and the consumption of raw vegetables from the Brassica family (cauliflower, broccoli, kale, cabbage, Brussels sprouts) as the main causes of iodine deficiency. Symptoms of iodine deficiency may include dizziness, dry skin, constipation, weight gain, forgetfulness, fatigues, and recurrent infections.
If iodine deficiency is not controlled, it can lead to serious health issues such as thyroid cancer, premature birth or miscarriage, infertility, nervous system disorders, growth retardation, mental disorders, and various types of cancers.
However, Dr. Özok cautioned against excessive iodine intake, especially in cases such as tuberculosis or kidney disease. Consuming doses above 2,000 milligrams per day can be dangerous and may cause thyroid cancer and hyperthyroidism. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised to avoid exceeding the recommended iodine doses.
Since individual bodies react differently to iodine, Dr. Özok emphasized the importance of consulting with a doctor and exercising caution when using iodine supplements. In cases of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or hypothyroidism, it is especially necessary to seek medical advice before increasing iodine intake.
In addition to its role in thyroid function, iodine offers several health benefits, including metabolic rate control, cancer prevention (particularly breast cancer), detoxification, immune support, skin and hair health, dental health, and proper growth and development.
Ensuring adequate iodine intake is crucial for overall well-being. To assess iodine deficiency, Dr. Özok recommended the urinary iodine excretion test, which provides insight into the body’s iodine levels.
In conclusion, maintaining a balanced diet that includes iodine-rich foods and using iodized salt appropriately can help prevent iodine deficiencies. However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the right iodine intake for individual needs and to address any underlying health conditions.
