The Return of Iodine Deficiency: A Growing Concern
Years ago, a deficiency of iodine was common in many parts of the US. Then Iodized salt became available and that solved the problem. Now, however, pregnant women, and others may have low levels of iodine, and some doctors are reporting kids with iodine deficiency. What is iodine and why do we need it? Iodine is a mineral our body needs for many functions and one our bodies can’t make but we can get it from foods we eat. Our thyroids need iodine for our metabolism helping our bodies turn the food we eat into the energy we need every day. Iodine also helps our thyroid regulate our: Body temperature Brain development and mental activity Breathing Heart Health Digestion During pregnancy and after the bab...