Iodine is an essential trace mineral, and if you do not meet the Recommended Dietary Allowance, you can develop hypothyroidism, along with other adverse effects. However, consuming too much of this mineral can pose risks to your health as well, and very high doses can be toxic. Talk to your doctor about the dose of iodine that is right for you, and let him know if you have symptoms that may suggest an iodine deficiency or overdose.
Function of Iodine and Symptoms of a Deficiency
The primary function of iodine is to produce thyroid hormones, and within your body, 70 to 80 percent of the mineral is located in your thyroid gland. Thyroid hormones contribute to metabolism function, as well as the function of the heart, kidneys and brain. If you become deficient in iodine, you may become fatigued, gain weight, have dry skin or become sensitive to temperature changes. Should the deficiency persist, you can develop hypothyroidism or goiter -- the inflammation of the thyroid gland.
RDA and Upper Limits of Iodine
As stated by the University of Maryland Medical Center, the Food and Nutrition Board of the U.S. National Academy of Science has set the RDA of iodine at 150 mcg for adults. This dose will keep your thyroid functioning and producing hormones normally, helping to prevent you from developing hypothyroidism. The maximum daily dose is what you would normally consume from iodized table salt, and this is between 160 and 600 mcg a day, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Consuming more than this may be harmful to your health by increasing your risks of thyroid diseases and other conditions. If you take more than 2,000 mcg of iodine a day, this can be toxic, especially if you have tuberculosis or kidney disease.
Risks of Too Much Iodine
It is rare for someone in the United States to consume too much iodine, but if you exceed the maximum dose, you may block the production of hormones in your thyroid, which can also lead to hypothyroidism. Additionally, the University of Maryland Medical Center states that excessive iodine intake can heighten your chances of developing thyroid cancer, Hashimoto's disease, Graves' disease or thyrotoxicosis, which is a buildup of thyroid hormones in your bloodstream. For these reasons, talk to your doctor before you increase your consumption of iodine or begin taking supplements that contain it.
Additional Considerations
If you are pregnant, the RDA for iodine is 175 mcg, and it increases to 200 mcg if you are breastfeeding, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Vegans may be at a greater risk for developing an iodine deficiency, and should talk to their doctors about using iodized table salt in cooking to meet the RDA. Always check with your physician before you alter your diet.
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