Iodine, an essential trace mineral, is present in small amounts in the body, with most of it concentrated in the thyroid gland as iodide.
The recommended daily intake of iodine is 150 µg for adults and adolescents, and up to 200 µg for pregnant and breastfeeding women. Typically, iodine is absorbed through the skin and gastrointestinal tract from foods such as fish, shellfish, crustaceans, and seaweed. Other good sources include milk, eggs, meat, green leafy vegetables, cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower, cabbage, kale, turnip greens, and pulses.
How it intervenes in the various biological activities of the body
Once absorbed in the small intestine, iodine is transported as iodide through the plasma to various tissues, primarily the thyroid gland. Iodine plays a crucial role in synthesizing thyroid hormones, which are vital for several biological activities, including:
- Thermogenesis
- Carbohydrate metabolism
- Protein synthesis by trophic effect on muscle
- Cardiovascular activity through increased myocardial contractility
- Body growth
- The normal development of the central nervous system
Together with other minerals, particularly calcium and silicon, iodine also contributes to bone mineralisation. But that’s not all: it also benefits the skin, nails and hair, strengthening them and keeping them healthy.
Iodine deficiency leads to hypothyroidism, characterised by low thyroid hormone production. Symptoms can include an enlarged thyroid gland, chronic fatigue, muscle weakness, apathy, cold intolerance, weight gain, dry skin, premature baldness, atherosclerosis, tachycardia, palpitations, tremors, nervousness, irritability, and slowed cognitive functions.
In Italy, around 10% of the population is affected by iodine deficiency. Due to its prevalence, the Italian Ministry of Health enacted a law in 2005 promoting iodised table salt, along with an information campaign to raise awareness about the benefits of iodine-enriched salt.
Iodine supplementation
UltraIod® is not just sodium iodate; it is Sucrosomial® Iodine, containing 1% elemental iodine, ensuring excellent absorption and proper intake. Sucrosomial® Technology shields the sodium iodate molecule from the acidic gastric environment, allowing for easy intestinal absorption, preventing side effects, and not interfering with the absorption of other minerals and nutrients.
UltraIod® is versatile and can be incorporated into various formats of food supplements, as well as functional foods and drinks. It is particularly beneficial for athletes, helping replenish this essential trace mineral during and after physical activity, as sweating is a major cause of iodine depletion and loss.