How to treat iodine deficiency
The best way to treat iodine deficiency is by adding high iodine-containing food to your diet. In cases where your diet is not providing enough iodine, you may consider adding iodine supplements. People who may not be getting enough iodine through food include;
- Pregnant women
- Vegetarians [5]
- Vegans
Potassium [6] containing iodine supplements are readily absorbed into the body. You can opt for supplements that contain potassium iodide and potassium iodate. However, you should not take supplements that contain more than 150 micrograms per day. Excess iodine intake can lead to an iodine overload, which is harmful to the thyroid gland.
A large percentage of people with iodine deficiency can rectify their health issues by adjusting their diet and adding supplements.
However, people with mixed ems require hospitalization. Doctors will administer intravenous fluids and other treatments at the hospital. Thyroid hormones will also be administered intravenously to correct the condition.
Once the patient is stable, the doctor will monitor the thyroid function to determine if a change in diet will ensure they are getting the required amount of iodine that will keep their hormone levels stable.