Iodine's importance for the body and thyroid function

Admin
May 24
2 min read

What is iodine?

Iodine's importance for the body and thyroid function

Iodine is an essential trace element. The body cannot produce iodine itself, so it must be regularly ingested through food. Iodine is necessary for the production of thyroid hormones.

According to approved health claims, iodine contributes to:

a normal production of thyroid hormones
normal thyroid function
a normal energy metabolism
normal functioning of the nervous system
maintaining normal skin
normal cognitive function
normal growth of children

Adequate nutrition is important in all phases of life.

How much iodine is needed?

The recommended daily intake depends on age and stage of life:

life phase	Recommended daily intake
0–6 months	110 µg
7–12 months	130 µg
1–8 years	90 µg
9–13 years	120 µg
14–18 years	150 µg
Adult	150 µg
Pregnant women	220 µg
Breastfeeding	290 µg

Pregnant and breastfeeding women have an increased need.

Which foods contain iodine?

Iodine occurs naturally in certain foods and is sometimes added to table salt.

Sources of iodine include:

Sea fish and seafood
algae
Milk and dairy products
eggs
Iodized table salt
Mineral water/Medicinal water

Note: Many processed foods do not contain iodized salt. Specialty or gourmet salts are also usually not iodized. Whether salt is iodized is indicated on the label.

Iodine in dietary supplements

Iodine is usually found in dietary supplements in the form of potassium iodide or sodium iodide. Multivitamin preparations may also contain iodine.

Dietary supplements are not a substitute for a balanced and varied diet and a healthy lifestyle.

Who should pay particular attention to ensuring adequate supplies?

Adequate iodine intake is important for everyone. Certain groups of people should pay particular attention to their intake, for example:

People who do not use iodized salt
People with very low intake of dairy products, eggs, or seafood
Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers
People with a one-sided diet

If you are unsure about your individual care needs, it is recommended to seek medical advice.

Can excessive iodine intake be problematic?

Excessive iodine intake can also be undesirable. The tolerable upper intake levels per day are:

life phase	upper limit
1–3 years	200 µg
4–8 years	300 µg
9–13 years	600 µg
14–18 years	900 µg
Adult	1,100 µg

These amounts refer to the total intake from food and dietary supplements.

Higher doses of medication should only be taken after consulting a doctor.

Important NOTE

The information provided in this article is for general information purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendation and is not a substitute for consulting a doctor.

The content is based on generally accessible scientific sources and publicly available specialist information.