Iodine is a key micronutrient necessary for the proper functioning of the human body. Its importance for health has been confirmed by numerous studies, and iodine deficiency can lead to serious health problems. It is worth looking at why iodine is so important and how its presence in the marine environment affects the body. Iodine and health in coastal regions
The importance of iodine in the body
Iodine is necessary for the synthesis of thyroid hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones regulate a number of vital metabolic functions, including:
- Energy Metabolism: Thyroid hormones are crucial to cellular metabolism, controlling metabolic rate and influencing energy utilization.
- Brain development and function: Adequate levels of iodine are especially important for normal brain development, especially in the prenatal and early childhood periods. Iodine deficiency can lead to delays in intellectual and cognitive development.
- Body temperature regulation: Thyroid hormones affect the body's ability to maintain a constant body temperature by regulating its metabolic rate.
- Cardiovascular and cardiovascular function: Adequate levels of iodine support heart and cardiovascular health, affecting blood pressure and heart rhythm.
Sources of iodine in the marine environment
In coastal regions, iodine is naturally present in the environment.
- Sea salt: Sea salt, a product of the evaporation of seawater, is rich in iodine. Therefore, along the coasts and in the coastal regions, more iodine is often found in the diet.
- Marine algae: Algae are extremely rich in iodine. Algae consumption is a common practice in the diets of residents of coastal regions, which contributes to a higher supply of iodine.
- Seawater: Iodine is also present in seawater and its presence in soil and water can affect local plants and foods.
- Sea breeze: Sea breeze, or wind from the sea, contains tiny water molecules that carry iodine into the air. Iodine present in seawater and seaweed is released into the atmosphere in the form of aerosols, which are inhaled by people residing in coastal areas. Regular stay in such conditions contributes to the additional introduction of iodine into the body, which supports the health of the thyroid gland and other metabolic functions.
Health benefits of high iodine levels in coastal regions
- Prevention of thyroid disease: In coastal areas where iodine availability is higher, the risk of hypothyroidism and goiter (thyroid enlargement) is lower. Long-term studies show that residents in these areas are less likely to suffer from conditions related to iodine deficiency.
- Improving neurological function: High availability of iodine may contribute to better neurological development of children and reduce the risk of cognitive impairment.
- Metabolism and immunity support: The right amount of iodine promotes proper metabolism and immune system function, which is beneficial for overall health.
Effect of iodine from the sea on human health. summary
Iodine is an essential micronutrient that plays a key role in maintaining thyroid health, metabolic function and neurological development. The coastal regions, thanks to natural sources of iodine, ensure a better supply of this element to the body. Therefore, people resting by the sea benefit from higher levels of iodine, which can have a positive effect on their health and well-being.
