Most of us have grown up watching salt commercials that boast of having adequate amounts of iodine in their products. Iodine is an essential mineral that helps make thyroid hormones, which in turn regulate the body's metabolism and facilitate several other important functions. It also supports proper bone and brain development during pregnancy and infancy, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). However, when it comes to iodine consumption, moderation is key. Excessive iodine intake can sometimes lead to an overdose, which can cause various side effects.
Also Read: How Hyperthyroidism Affects Your Health
What Is Iodine Poisoning?
It is important to note that iodine is not naturally produced in the body. Instead, it is acquired from foods, dietary supplements, medications, and iodinated contrast media, according to StatPearls Publishing.
The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of iodine for adults is 150 micrograms/day, 220-250 micrograms/day for pregnant women, and 250-290 micrograms/day for breastfeeding women, as per research. Up to 1 mg per day is considered safe for most people. However, research warns that over 1.1 milligrams/day of iodine may be harmful and can lead to acute and/or chronic toxicity.
Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Ankit Tuteja, Associate Consultant, Internal Medicine, Aakash Healthcare, New Delhi, says that excessive iodine consumption can cause various conditions like thyroiditis, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, and sometimes thyroid papillary cancer. Moreover, it may upset the Gastrointestinal (GI) tract, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and sometimes serious symptoms like delirium, stupor, and shock.
The Risk Of Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland makes too much thyroid hormone. Also known as overactive thyroid, it can speed up metabolism and lead to symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, weight loss, increased appetite, and anxiety.
Dr Tuteja says, "Iodine poisoning may precipitate hyperthyroidism," adding that people with a pre-existing thyroid disease may be at a higher risk of developing iodine-induced hyperthyroidism, which can sometimes be very serious in these individuals.
In fact, a clinical review published in the Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences found that while most people handle high iodine intake well, it can trigger thyroid problems in some, especially those with existing thyroid issues or past iodine deficiency.
Also Read: Doctor Lists Diseases Caused by Iodine Deficiency: Understanding the Risks and Solutions
On Preventing And Treating Iodine Poisoning
Dr Tuteja says that iodine is a naturally occurring substance in certain foods; however, there is normally not enough iodine in the foods to harm the body.
Therefore, when it comes to excess iodine intake, sources usually include overconsumption of iodized salt, milk rich in iodine, certain seaweeds, and iodine-containing dietary supplements.
Mostly, iodine toxicity occurs via certain medications like amiodarone, chemicals, dyes, lukewarm solution, tincture iodine, and radioactive iodine used in medical tests, according to Dr Tuteja.
Therefore, he advises staying away from unwanted chemicals and dyes and using proper precautions while working with such chemicals and substances.
As far as treatment is concerned, there is no antidote to iodine poisoning, the doctor says, emphasising management.
“If the patient is conscious and stable, then activated charcoal is used to decontaminate the gastrointestinal tract, and sometimes prolonged observation and hospitalisation may be required depending on the patient’s condition,” he concludes.