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The thyroid glands convert iodine - usually from food, but sometimes supplements - into thyroid hormones. <\/p>\n
These hormones, triiodothyronine and thyroxine, help keep cells and the metabolic rate healthy. <\/p>\n
According to the US Office of Dietary Supplements its important for proper bone and brain development during pregnancy and infancy. <\/p>\n
You can get iodine from food sources, such as sea fish and shellfish. <\/p>\n
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The NHS suggest that its possible to get enough iodine from dietary sources. However, some people may need to take supplements. <\/p>\n
It can also be found in plant foods - such as cereals and grains - but the level depends on amount of iodine in the soil. <\/p>\n
Its recommended adults get 0.14mg a day. <\/p>\n
The NHS suggest that its possible to get enough iodine from dietary sources. <\/p>\n
However, some people may need to take supplements. <\/p>\n
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A-Z of vitamins and minerals <\/p>\n
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Indeed, its thought 40 per cent of the worldwide population is at risk of iodine deficiency. <\/p>\n
Symptoms of this include lethargy, feeling cold, difficulty concentrating and unusual weight gain. <\/p>\n
Reasons for deficiency might include bromine exposure, not having enough iodine-rich foods, soil depletion and drinking fluorinated water. <\/p>\n
The Department of Health recommend that sticking to 0.5mg or less a day of iodine supplements is unlikely to be dangerous. <\/p>\n
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However, taking high doses of the mineral for long periods could harm the thyroid glands. <\/p>\n
It can also cause a condition called hypothyroidism - when the thyroid produces too little thyroid hormone - and which is usually associated with deficiency. <\/p>\n
A 2012 study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that participants who consumed 400mg in iodine supplements a day developed the condition. <\/p>\n
According to the US Office of Dietary Supplements it can cause thyroid gland inflammation and thyroid cancer. <\/p>\n
They state: Getting a very large dose of iodine (several grams, for example) can cause burning of the mouth, throat, and stomach; fever; stomach pain; nausea; vomiting; diarrhoea; weak pulse; and coma. <\/p>\n
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See more here: <\/p>\n
Cancer warning: Overdosing on this supplement could harm your thyroid glands - Express.co.uk<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" GETTY The thyroid glands convert iodine - usually from food, but sometimes supplements - into thyroid hormones. Continue reading