40+ FAQs About Iodine- Uses, Benefits, Sources And More| World Iodine Deficiency Day 2025

Celebrated annually on October 21, World Iodine Deficiency Day seeks to increase awareness of the role that iodine plays in preserving health. The production of thyroid hormones, which control growth, metabolism, and brain development, depends on iodine, a crucial micronutrient. Although it is required in trace amounts, a lack of it can cause major health issues like goitre, hypothyroidism, and delays in children's development.

There are still many people who are unaware of their iodine requirements, the best dietary sources, and natural ways to avoid deficiency. Governments and health organisations encourage the use of iodised salt and educate communities on the importance of maintaining a balanced diet high in iodine to raise public awareness.

On this World Iodine Deficiency Day 2025, let’s understand iodine’s importance, its functions, benefits, and ways to ensure you and your family get enough of this essential mineral for a healthy and active life.

General Information On Iodine

FAQs about Iodine (Image: Canva)

1. What is iodine?
Iodine is a trace mineral essential for producing thyroid hormones that control metabolism and growth.

2. Why is iodine important?
It helps in maintaining thyroid function, energy levels, and brain development.

3. When is World Iodine Deficiency Day celebrated?
It is observed every year on October 21.

4. Who discovered iodine?
Iodine was discovered by French chemist Bernard Courtois in 1811.

5. What is iodine deficiency?
It occurs when the body doesn’t get enough iodine to make thyroid hormones.

Health Benefits Of Iodine

6. What are the main health benefits of iodine?
It supports thyroid health, metabolism, brain function, and energy regulation.

7. Does iodine improve brain development in children?
Yes, adequate iodine is vital for brain and nerve development in babies and young children.

8. Can iodine help with weight management?
Yes, since it regulates thyroid hormones, iodine indirectly supports metabolism and weight control.

9. Does iodine boost immunity?
Proper thyroid function from iodine supports overall immunity.

10. Can iodine help prevent goitre?
Yes, iodine prevents goitre, a swelling of the thyroid gland due to a deficiency.

 

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Dietary Sources of Iodine

FAQs about Iodine (Image: Canva)

11. What are some iodine-rich foods?
Seafood, seaweed, dairy products, eggs, and iodised salt are excellent sources.

12. Is iodised salt the main source of iodine?
Yes, iodised salt is the most accessible and common source worldwide.

13. Do fruits and vegetables contain iodine?
Only if grown in iodine-rich soil; otherwise, their content is low.

14. Which seafood contains the most iodine?
Fish like cod, tuna, shrimp, and seaweed are rich in iodine.

15. Can vegetarians get iodine easily?
Yes, through dairy, eggs, and iodised salt.

Iodine Deficiency and Disorders FAQs

16. What causes iodine deficiency?
Lack of iodine in diet or soil and avoidance of iodised salt.

17. What are the symptoms of iodine deficiency?
Fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, swelling in the neck, and hormonal imbalance.

18. Who is most at risk of iodine deficiency?
Pregnant women, children, and people living in mountainous regions.

19. What happens if iodine deficiency is not treated?
It can cause goitre, hypothyroidism, and developmental issues in children.

20. How is iodine deficiency diagnosed?
Through urine tests and thyroid hormone blood tests.

Daily Requirements Of Iodine

21. How much iodine do adults need daily?
Adults need about 150 micrograms per day.

22. How much iodine do pregnant women need?
Around 220–250 micrograms daily for healthy fetal development.

23. Can too much iodine be harmful?
Yes, excess iodine may lead to thyroid dysfunction or hyperthyroidism.

24. Should iodine supplements be taken daily?
Only under medical advice, especially for pregnant women or those deficient.

25. Can children take iodine supplements?
Yes, but only in recommended doses based on age.

Iodine and Thyroid Health FAQs

FAQs about Iodine (Image: Canva)

26. What is the link between iodine and the thyroid gland?
Iodine helps produce thyroid hormones T3 and T4.

27. Can iodine cure thyroid disorders?
It helps prevent them, but doesn’t cure all thyroid conditions.

28. Is hypothyroidism always caused by iodine deficiency?
Not always; autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s can also cause it.

29. Can hyperthyroidism be caused by too much iodine?
Yes, excessive iodine intake can overstimulate the thyroid gland.

30. Can iodine affect mood and energy?
Yes, since thyroid hormones influence the brain and energy levels.

Special Considerations Of Eating Iodine

31. Do pregnant women need more iodine?
Yes, for the baby’s brain and nervous system development.

32. Can iodine deficiency affect fertility?
Yes, it may lead to hormonal imbalance and menstrual irregularities.

33. Is iodine safe during breastfeeding?
Yes, it helps pass essential nutrients to the baby through milk.

34. Can people with thyroid problems take iodine?
Only under medical supervision, as excess may worsen certain conditions.

35. Can iodine help hair and skin health?
Yes, balanced thyroid function supports healthy skin and hair.

 

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Miscellaneous FAQs about Iodine

36. Is there iodine in drinking water?
In some areas, yes, but not in sufficient amounts everywhere.

37. Can iodine prevent radiation damage?
Potassium iodide can protect the thyroid from radioactive iodine exposure.

38. Is Himalayan pink salt a good source of iodine?
No, it contains very little or no iodine unless fortified.

39. Can iodine be obtained naturally without salt?
Yes, through seafood and seaweed.

40. Can iodine deficiency be eliminated?
Yes, through widespread use of iodised salt and public awareness.

41. What global initiatives exist for iodine deficiency prevention?
UNICEF and WHO run salt iodisation programs worldwide.

42. How can you celebrate World Iodine Deficiency Day?
By spreading awareness, using iodised salt, and promoting iodine-rich diets.