Overview
Low levels of iodine can lead to a wide variety of symptoms including weight gain and neck swelling. You may also experience other symptoms related to a low level of thyroid-stimulating hormone. Iodine is essential for growth and development. It is commonly found in seafood. It is used by the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones which help regulate growth, repair damaged cells and maintain a healthy metabolism. According to studies, over one-third of people in the world are at risk of developing iodine deficiency.
People who are more likely to develop iodine deficiency include:
- Pregnant people.
- People who live in countries where there is very little iodine in the soil. This includes South Asia, Southeast Asia, New Zealand, and European countries.
- People who don’t use iodized salt.
- People who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet.
Lodine deficiency is not common in the United State because there is an adequate supply of the mineral in the food supply. People with this deficiency may experience uncomfortable and severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include pregnancy-related conditions, weight gain, swelling in the neck, and learning difficulties.
Health consequences of iodine deficiency range from mild to severe medical conditions. This article will discuss the most common health consequences associated with iodine deficiency.