IODINE

摘要

Iodine deficiency is one of the most common nutrient deficiencies in the world, with almost two billion people estimated to have inadequate iodine intakes. Iodine is an essential nutrient required by the body for the synthesis of the thyroid hormones, triiodothyronine (T_3) and thyroxine (T_4), and is an integral component of these hormones. Thyroid hormones are involved in many metabolic processes thereby critical for normal growth and development, particularly of the brain and central nervous system.Thyroid hormones also regulate the basal metabolic rate and macronutrient metabolism. Inadequate iodine intake during pregnancy is of particular concern as it can result in miscarriages, still births, cretinism and other major impairments of the fetus.Australia has been classified as mildly iodine deficient by the World Health Organization, and children, pregnant and breastfeeding women are most at risk. Public health strategies to eradicate iodine deficiency include fortification of appropriate food vehicles and, in some cases, supplementation.