Why does the body need iodine?
The major function of the thyroid gland is to produce thyroid hormone in an amount sufficient to meet the body’s needs. To make thyroid hormone, the thyroid uses iodine. If iodine is not available in the diet, the thyroid may produce an insufficient amount of hormone. How much iodine does the body need? Areas in the United States where iodine deficiency occurs are scarce. In North America, iodine is added to salt and bread. It is also present in additives, water sources, medications, and dietary supplements. The daily iodine intake varies widely throughout the world. A minimum of 60 micrograms of elemental iodine per day is required to make thyroid hormone.
