Iodine is a mineral that's found naturally in your body, but you need to consume more to ensure that your body has enough. Most of it is found in your thyroid gland, but some of it is found in other areas, including your muscles. The main functions of iodine are to keep your thyroid in good working condition and to help turn food into energy. Not having enough iodine in your body can cause problems, including difficulties with your muscles.
Iodine Distribution
The majority of the iodine in your body -- between 70 and 80 percent -- is contained in your thyroid gland, located in your neck. The rest of it is distributed in other parts of your body, including your blood and muscles, and if you're a woman, your ovaries.
Iodine and Muscles
Not having enough iodine in your body can lead to a condition called hypothyroidism, which can be caused by several factors, such as birth defects and viral thyroidism. It has several symptoms, including unintentional weight gain, depression, fatigue, constipation, heavy menstrual periods in women, sensitivity to cold, brittle hair and nails, pale skin, and sore, achy joints and muscles. Not having enough iodine in your body can decrease how well your muscles contract. This can lead to difficulty performing motor tasks, as well as make it hard for your body to regulate its temperature; muscle contractions are your body's temperature regulator.
Low Risk of Iodine Deficiency
Most people in developed countries get plenty of iodine in their diets. If you have hypothyroidism or general muscle aches or a decrease in muscle function, chances are your symptoms are not caused by an iodine deficiency. People over 60 and pregnant women are at higher risk for having an iodine deficiency, which can lead to problems with muscle function, but this risk is still low.
Preventing Muscle Problems Due to Low Iodine
Ensuring that you consume plenty of iodine can help prevent muscle aches and loss of muscle function. Most table salt sold in the U.S. is fortified with iodine. This is known as iodized salt. Seafood is rich in iodine as well, as is kelp, because they absorb iodine from the sea. Soybeans, lima beans, garlic, summer squash, Swiss chard, sesame seeds, spinach and turnip greens are also good sources of iodine. Some soil is rich in iodine, and produce grown in such soil is a good source of iodine as well. If your iodine level is too low, your doctor might prescribe medication to return it to normal levels. You should not take iodine supplements unless your doctor advises it because having too much iodine in your body can cause problems as well.
Member Comments