8 Unexpected Benefits of Iodine (MUST WATCH) By rjoachim | January 26, 2023 Around 70-80% of the iodine in the human body is stored in the thyroid gland. It plays a very important role in the normal functioning of the thyroid gland, which secretes thyroid hormones that control the base metabolic rate of the body. In fact, without it, thyroid hormones could not even be synthesized. It also helps in the brain and bone development of the baby during pregnancy and early childhood.Iodine is an essential trace element that naturally occurs in the earth’s soil. It is also known as iodide. It is important for your thyroid gland as it helps in the production of hormones. The human body cannot produce iodine, which is why it is important to include iodine-rich foods in the diet. It is mostly found in iodized salt and seafood.Many countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia have salt iodization programs to curb the deficiency.Iodine deficiency can have serious effects on the growth and development of the body. The symptoms of this deficiency include the following: [2]Reduced thyroid hormone production and hypothyroidismGoiter (enlarged thyroid gland)Intellectual disabilityStunted infant growthAbnormal weight gainDecreased fertilityDry skinGrowth retardation in the fetus and increased risk of stillbirth or miscarriage in expectant mothersConstipationFatigueIn severe cases, intellectual disability associated with diseases such as cretinism, characterized by physical malformations, can be the result. According to WHO reports, this deficiency is one of the leading causes of intellectual disability all over the world. Iodine: Benefits, Recommended Intake, & Side Effects Posted in Diet & Nutrition