Iodine is a trace element essential for the metabolism of fat and minerals. It is important for physical and mental development. Iodine is concentrated in the thyroid gland and is an essential component of the thyroid hormone, thyroxine, which is the master regulator of metabolism.
Iodine increases metabolism, ie pulse rate, respiration, arterial pressure, quality of urine.
The primary role of iodine is for the synthesis of thyroid hormone thyroxine(T4) and triiodothyronine(T3) by the thyroid gland.
Mechanism
The thyroid cells actively collect iodide from blood. Then iodide is oxidized to iodine, which is then bound to the tyrosyl residues of the glycoprotein thyroglobulin. The process is catalyzed by thyroperoxidase and produces thyroglobulin-3-monoiodotyrosine(Thg-MIT). Next, MIT is iodinated and form thyroglobulin-3,5-diiodotyrosine(Thg-DIT). Two DITs couple to form Thg-T4 . This coupling reaction is catalyzed by thyroperoxides as well. Finally, DIT also couple with MIT to form T3 and reverse T3.
The DIT and MIT that are not used for thyroid hormone synthesis are deiodinated and the iodine is made available for recycling in the formation of new iodothyroglobulin.
All of the blood in the body passes through the thyroid every hour and a half. A diet lacking trace iodine weakens the thyroid function. This leads to formation of albuminous toxins, which can adversly affect the brain and nervous system.
Functions and Benefits
-Development and functioning of the thyroid gland
-Regulates the body's production of energy
-Helps to burn excess fat, metabolism stimulation
-Neutralizes albumin
-Aids in the assimilation of minerals, ie calcium, silica, phosphorus
Food, Nutrition and Diet Therapy. Krause Page 139-141
Kristin G.
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