Testing For Iodin Levels Using Iodine Skin Test

By Olive Pate


Iodine is among the components used by the thyroid to produce necessary hormones to ensure the metabolic processes function normally. If it is not sufficient, a couple of problems can be witnessed including hypothyroidism. The iodine skin test is one of the popular methods of testing for iodin deficiency.

The tests ideally measures the rate at which body can absorb iodin through skin. You need to be aware that this is not the only test that you should do to have the full view of iodine levels in your body. Visit your doctor for more tests. This examination typically measures how your body does absorb iodine. Again is not a clinical substitute for this function. Research has not been done to support the use of this test in clinics.

The procedure of performing requires a tincture or a solution of iodin. It is usually orange in color. Smear a 3 by 3 inch square of your skin with the solution. The preferable sites include the inner forearm, inner thigh or the abdomen. Make sure it has dried off well before touching anything because it may stain it. The patch is monitored for the next twenty four hours for any changes in color.

What one should be keen about is the time taken for the spot to fade in color. If it is still present 24 hours after the painting, then the results are within the normal ranges but if disappearance takes place before 24 hours are over, then some deficiency is present. In addition, if significant lightening occurs within 18 hours, this is an indication of sever to moderate deficiency. Supplementation may have to be considered.

There are elements which associate to cause the fading of the iodine color from the skin surface. The solution is reduced to a compound known as iodide by the surface of skin. This resulting compound is white this is why there is fading. The rate at which the iodin evaporates is affected by atmospheric pressure and the temperatures. For more accurate results, loading test is the better alternative.

If the levels of iodin in your body are level, this may indicate malfunctioning of the thyroid. It needs iodin in balancing of hormones in the body, heartbeat regulation, cholesterol stabilization, weight control, enhancement of muscle growth, provision of energy, regulation of the menstrual cycle and even keeping a positive state of mind.

About two thirds of the iodin found in the human body is kept in thyroid gland. Taking seaweed vegetables is a sure way of boosting the iodine content in the body. One spoon a day of this is enough to regain the normal levels. Seafood of even fish can also help out. Other food types containing iodin are eggs and also dairy products. Goitrogens are foods which hinder utilization of iodin in the body. They are food like cabbage, kale, soy flour, peanuts, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, turnips and kohlrabi.

To revitalize the gland, selenium, copper, zinc, iodine and tyrosine are needed. Ensure you include foods high in this minerals are incorporated in the diet. For those with Hashimoto thyroiditis, iodin supplements should not be added because they may worsen the condition. You need to consult with your doctor before any steps are taken.




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