Iodine Deficiency
Disorders or IDD is the most common cause of preventable brain damage and
mental retardation in the world. It is also known to cause goitre, decrease
child survival and weaken growth and development. In pregnant women, a lack of
iodine usually causes stillbirths, miscarriages and other complications. Children
with Iodine Deficiency Disorders may grow up into listless, stunted, mentally
retarded individuals who are incapable of normal movements, speech or hearing.
A teaspoon of iodine is
all a person requires during his or her lifetime. However, the thyroid gland
does not have the capacity to amass this amount, so small amounts of iodine
must be eaten regularly through a balanced diet over time.
Prevention:
Even though Iodine Deficiency Disorders cannot be cured, they can be easily prevented. This is done through the consumption of foods rich in iodine such as –
- Iodized or iodated salt.
- Seafood and Seaweed
- Eggs, Meat and Dairy Products
- Cereals and Green Leafy Vegetables (depending on the amount of iodine present in the soil they were grown in)
- Iodine Supplements (usually recommended for pregnant women)
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