Optimum iodine status is essential for our metabolism, which governs many processes in the body, including energy-producing metabolism. Iodine also contributes to cognitive functions, nervous function and skin.
Iodine is used primarily by the thyroid, which is a small gland located in the neck. The thyroid gland’s main role in the body is to regulate our metabolic rate. Specifically, the thyroid uses iodine to produce thyroid gland hormones known as T3 ( triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine). If the body doesn’t have enough iodine, the production of these hormones can be adversely affected.