Iodine Toxicity
Toxicity due to excessive consumption of Iodine is rarely ever seen as people can tolerate almost 1000 mgs (1 gm) without undesirable effects. Even in parts of Japan where diets include large amounts of fish with seaweed, still only total up to 50-80mg. However should somebody take in excess of 1 gm, symptoms will include burning of the mouth, throat, and stomach, fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, a weak pulse, or even coma.
Properly iodized salt will contribute only around 300 mcg of iodine, so the concern of consuming excess iodine should not stop people from taking Iodized salt.
Goitrogens
These are substances that interfere with the absorption or utilization of iodine or the production of thyroid hormones. Cassava from the Congo belt has a compound that is metabolized to THIOCYANATE and blocks thyroid glands intake of Iodine. Other foods include
- Cruciferous vegetables for example, broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, mustard, turnips and radishes
- Millet
- Peaches
- Pine nuts
- Peanuts
- Soybean and soy products, including tofu
- Spinach
- Strawberries
Cooking de-activates goitrogens in the cruciferous vegetables to some extent but even otherwise the amount of consumption of any of the above mentioned products is not large enough to cause thyroid problems, except soy -when people consume excess of soy from dawn to dusk. Moderate consumption helps get the value of other nutrients; phytofactors or anti oxidants that in fact help us lead healthier lives.
It is best if people with existing condition of hypothyroidism consult their doctor about including these foods.
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