Iodine is a trace element indispensable to the human body, it never needs to be fed on a constant basis because it is one of the essential nutrients. The most important task of iodine is to ensure a good function of the thyroid, alone 70 - 80% of the absorbed iodine is consumed in the thyroid gland. Sometimes iodine is responsible for the production of thyroid hormones, they are urgently needed for bone formation and growth. The iodine absorbed via the diet or in the form of dietary supplements is released into the blood via the gastrointestinal tract and transported to the thyroid, where it is incorporated into the thyroid hormones. If necessary, the hormones stored in the thyroid are returned to the blood. In order to ensure proper functioning of the thyroid gland, approximately 200 μg of iodine must be administered per day. Pregnant or nursing women as well as heavy smokers have an increased need for iodine, they should additionally feed another 100 - 150 μg. The Federal Republic of Germany is considered to be an iodine deficient area because the occurrence in the soil is very low, which is also the reason why iodine is added to the table salt. Other natural sources of iodine are mainly foods from the sea, such as sea fish or algae, but also milk and all types of cabbage are quite iodine. However, caution should be exercised when preparing foods containing iodine, as iodine is extremely soluble in water and is lost during cooking. Therefore, the finished food should also be seasoned just before serving with iodized salt. In the case of iodine deficiency may lead to an enlargement of the thyroid gland, the so-called goiter, also a hypothyroidism is quite possible. Hypothyroidism, in turn, can be manifested by tiredness, difficulty concentrating or sensitivity to cold. If the iodine deficiency occurs during pregnancy, this can have fatal consequences for the unborn child: physical and mental underdevelopment up to miscarriage. It should therefore be absolutely necessary to ensure adequate intake of iodine, if necessary, should be consulted after consultation with the doctor on a dietary supplement with iodine.
