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Iodine - Side Effects
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Iodine is a trace mineral needed to make thyroid hormones, which are necessary for maintaining normal metabolism in all cells of the body.
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This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Goiter | Use a mouthrinse or toothpaste containing zinc regularly | Iodine supplementation can be an effective treatment of iodine deficiency hypothyroidism and may halt goiter growth and, in early stages, shrink goiters. |
| ||
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Attention Deficit–Hyperactivity Disorder and Iodine Deficiency during Pregnancy | Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner | In one study, iodine deficiency during pregnancy was associated with the babies being born with increased ADHD risk. If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant, discuss whether you might need iodine supplements with your doctor.
|
| ||
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Hypothyroidism | Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner | Iodine deficiency and excessive iodine intake can both lead to hypothyroidism, so ask your doctor if supplementing with iodine is right for you. |
| ||
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Fibrocystic Breast Disease | Refer to label instructions | Iodine appears to be helpful in treating FBD, it should be taken only under the guidance of a healthcare practitioner. |
| ||
Also indexed as:
- dietary iodine
About this treatment
Side Effects
High amounts (several milligrams per day) of iodine can interfere with normal thyroid function and should not be taken without consulting a doctor. Although potassium iodide supplementation (prescribed for some skin disorders) is usually well-tolerated, it has been known to produce adverse reactions such as rashes, itching or lesions on the skin, gastro-intestinal symptoms, or hypothyroidism, especially in people with a prior history of thyroid problems. Because of such potential problems, the use of potassium iodide therapy should be supervised by a doctor. The average diet provides about four times the recommended amount of iodine. For susceptible people, that amount of iodine may be enough to cause health problems. A possible link to thyroid cancer has been observed in areas where an iodine-rich diet is consumed, and among populations that supplement with iodine. However, there is insufficient evidence to conclude that iodine supplementation is responsible for the increased incidence of thyroid cancer. Some people react to supplemental iodine, the first symptom of which is usually an acne-like rash.
When people with small, nontoxic goitre (living in areas not deficient in iodine) received iodine injections, they had a higher incidence of abnormal antibodies suggestive of the early stages of autoimmune thyroid disease.
Last Review: 05-11-2011
Copyright © 2011 Aisle7. All rights reserved. www.Aisle7.net
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The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2011.
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
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