Nutri Courses

Advisory

Iodine

Iodine is an essential trace element necessary for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland and the production of thyroid hormones. These hormones regulate many important biochemical reactions, including protein synthesis and enzymatic activity, and are crucial for metabolic activity. Iodine also plays a vital role in the development of the central nervous system and skeletal system during pregnancy and early childhood.
Iodine naturally occurs in seafood, such as fish and seaweed, as well as in milk and dairy products. In some countries, it is also added to table salt as a preventive measure against iodine deficiency. Iodine deficiency can lead to a series of health problems, including goiter (enlargement of the thyroid gland), mental retardation, and various developmental disorders.

Hello,

I am curious to know whether it is possible to overdose on iodine from natural sources (recently, I have developed a taste for dried nori seaweed, which seems like a great alternative to chips, but I found a recommended dose on the back of max. 3 pieces per day; otherwise, there is a risk of iodine overdose)? And what would be the symptoms of an overdose?

Thank you for your response.

Overdosing on iodine is a rare occurrence. The element binds to salts that are water-soluble—organisms have mechanisms to eliminate its excess. If you do not suffer from hyperthyroidism, a higher intake of iodine should not be a problem (at least not on a short-term basis).

Hello,
I am curious to know whether it is possible to overdose on iodine from natural sources (I recently developed a taste for dried nori seaweed, which seemed like a great alternative to chips, but I found a recommended dose of max 3 pieces per day on the back, otherwise there is a risk of iodine overdose)? And what would be the symptoms of an overdose?
Thank you for your response.

Overdose of iodine is a rare occurrence. The element binds to salts that are water-soluble—the body has mechanisms to eliminate its excess. If you do not suffer from hyperthyroidism, a higher intake of iodine should not be harmful (at least not in short-term cases).

Questions answered by

Mgr. Martin Jelinek
Lecturer and author of the educational system

Mgr. Martin Jelínek has been systematically involved in nutrition education since 1999. He is the founder of ATAC, the educational company behind NutriCourses, and the author of an educational system focused on nutrition, healthy lifestyle, and the practical application of nutrition knowledge.

He graduated from the Faculty of Science at Masaryk University in Brno. Throughout his professional career, he has combined nutrition, education, and the practical application of acquired knowledge. His educational system also includes the ZOF (Zone of Optimal Functioning) learning application, where students turn theory into practical work with meal plans.

In 2007, he launched the first intake of a six-month course focused on the education of nutrition advisors. Over time, this course became the foundation for the further development of the educational system and a range of specialised courses.

Martin Jelínek's articles