Your body needs iodine to support normal thyroid function. Insufficient intake is linked not only to thyroid problems, but also mental problems, loss of hearing and goiter, according to MayoClinic.com. Iodine deficiency affects approximately 30 percent of the world's population and is cited by the World Health Organization as the leading cause of preventable brain damage. Deficiency is rare in the U.S. primarily because iodized salt is readily available. Iodine toxicity, though rare, can have equally serious effects on your health.
Symptoms
Signs of iodine toxicity from ingestion include nausea, diarrhea, fever, a weak pulse and burning in the stomach, throat and mouth. Iodine poisoning may also lead to a comatose state. Iodine is also an ingredient in certain pesticide products. Signs of iodine poisoning from inhalation include shortness of breath, coughing and sore throat. Contact with skin may cause pain, redness and burns. If iodine gets in your eyes, symptoms include burns, blurred vision, pain and redness. Seek medical attention immediately if you suspect iodine toxicity or poisoning.
Diagnosis
If you have signs of iodine toxicity, your doctor can perform diagnostic screenings to determine if iodine is the cause of your symptoms. Urinary iodine levels are indicators of deficient or sufficient iodine status. Typical diagnosis of iodine poisoning or toxicity relies, however, on thyroid function abnormalities and imaging tests that scan radioactive iodine uptake to identify problems such as hyperthyroidism, goiter, hypothyroidism and iodine overload.
Consequences
Although iodine toxicity is rare, when it does occur, it can lead to hyperthyroidism. Although insufficient iodine intake inhibits the synthesis of thyroid hormones, which can lead to hypothyroidism and goiter, excessive intakes can have a similar effect. Indications that iodine intake is too high include a brassy taste in the mouth, an increase in saliva, irritation in the gastrointestinal tract and skin lesions, according to the Merck Manual.
Suggested Intakes
The recommended dietary allowance for iodine is 150 micrograms for adults, with the exception of pregnant and lactating women, who need 220 micrograms and 290 micrograms daily, respectively. The tolerable upper intake level -- which indicates the maximum intake not likely to pose adverse health effects -- is 1,100 micrograms daily for adults, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. Multivitamin supplements that contain 100 percent of the daily value of iodine are generally safe to take, even if you get sufficient amounts of iodine in your diet.
Considerations
Food sources of iodine include cod, boiled eggs, potatoes served with the peeling, seaweed, tuna, shrimp, cow's milk and navy beans. Additionally, 1 g of iodized salt provides 77 micrograms of iodine, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. To compare 3 oz. of cod contains 99 micrograms of iodine, an unpeeled baked potato provides 60 micrograms and 1/4-oz. of seaweed may provide 4,500 micrograms or more. Consult your doctor about your diet and supplemental needs if you're concerned about iodine in your diet or have symptoms of a thyroid disorder.
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