Micronutrients such as Iodine in thyroid function and metabolism
Iodine is needed to make the thyroid hormones thyroxine and triiodothyronine, which assist with the creation of proteins and enzyme activity, as well as regulate normal metabolism. However, many other minerals such as selenium, iron, and trace elements are found to be involved in thyroid function and metabolism.
Micronutrients, particularly iodine and selenium, play a crucial role in the synthesis and function of thyroid hormones. Iodine is essential for thyroid hormones, and its shortage is a common cause of preventable brain damage worldwide. Currently, around 800 million people are affected by iodine deficiency disorders, leading to issues like goiter, hypothyroidism, mental retardation, and various developmental problems. While iodine supplementation, often through iodized salt and vegetable oil, has made significant improvements, iodine deficiency remains a concern, not only in developing countries but also among specific groups like vegetarians.
Reducing dietary iodine content, partly due to recommendations to lower salt intake for hypertension prevention, is another factor contributing to iodine deficiency. Many countries face declining iodine intakes, leading to a resurgence of goiter and other iodine deficiency disorders, especially when monitoring is lacking after goiter eradication efforts.
Selenium, another essential micronutrient, is critical for the activation and inactivation of thyroid hormones through different iodothyronine deiodinases. Selenium also protects the thyroid from free radical damage. Selenium deficiency can worsen the effects of iodine deficiency, and the same is true for deficiencies in vitamin A or iron.
Certain substances introduced through food, like thiocyanate, isoflavones, or specific herbal preparations, can interfere with micronutrients and impact thyroid function. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of the role of micronutrients in thyroid function and related diseases.
Recommended Amounts:
For iodine intake:
- For adult men and women aged 19 and above, the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) is
150 micrograms (mcg) per day.
- Pregnant women are advised to consume 220 mcg of iodine daily.
- Lactating women should aim for 290 mcg of iodine each day.
There is also a Tolerable Upper Intake Level(UL) set to prevent adverse effects:
- The maximum daily dose of iodine unlikely to cause harm to adults and pregnant/lactating women is 1,100 mcg.
Food Sources
Iodine is found in soil and the ocean, which varies in amount and will affect how much of the mineral is contained in food. Iodine is found mainly in animal protein foods and sea vegetables, and to a lesser extent in fortified foods like breads, cereals, and milk.
· Seaweed (nori, kelp, kombu, wakame)
· Fish, shellfish (cod, canned tuna, oysters, shrimp)
· Table salts labeled “iodized”
· Dairy (milk, cheese, yogurt)
· Eggs
· Beef liver
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