MINERAL: IODINEJennifer Soto and LeShone Jackson

FUNCTION OF IODINE IN HUMAN BODY:

Iodine is a trace mineral and a nutrient found naturally in the body. At present, the only physiologic role known for iodine in the human body is in the synthesis of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF DEFICIENCY

Iodine deficiency disorders, the collective name for endemic goiter.

When iodine availability decreases and plasma levels of T4 hormone drop, the pituitary gland secretes thyroid-stimulating hormone.

Thyroid enlargement called goiter. Mental imbalances such as depression

and anxiety Mental retardation Fetal hypothyroidism

IODINE TOXICITY Iodine toxicity can cause enlargement of

the thyroid gland and decreased thyroid hormone synthesis.

Toxicities have reported in Japan and in Chile

Hypothyroidism is the most common result in the iodine toxicity, excess iodine intakes also may increase the risk of hyperthyroidism, autoimmune thyroid disease, and thyroid cancer.

RECOMMENDED SODIUM INTAKE:

Ages: 19–50

1.5 g/1,500 mg3,800 mg, or ⅔ teaspoon (tsp.)2.3 g/2,300 mg (equivalent to 5.8 g/5,800 mg, or 1 tsp., salt)

Asian Scientist (Jul. 8, 2013) - Researchers have developed a lithium-iodine battery system that has double the energy density of conventional lithium-ion batteries. This was achieved by replacing the organic electrolyte in conventional lithium-ion electrochemical cells with water.

FUN FACT:

RELIABLE SOURCES: www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/

salt-and-sodium/sodium-health-risks-and-disease/