Testing For Iodin Levels Using Iodine Skin Test

By Olive Pate


One of the major building blocks used by the thyroid in hormone production for use in metabolic processes is iodine. If it is not enough, several derangements happens hypothyroidism being one of them. Among the popular methods of testing for the deficiency is iodine skin test.

It theoretically measures how fast the iodin is absorbed into the body via the skin. It is not perfectly reliable because it does not give the levels of iodine concentration in the body as would a test carried out by the doctor. It just gives the speed of absorption. It cannot therefore used as a substitute to the usual laboratory tests.

It is done using a solution of iodine of tincture. The normal color of the solution is yellow. A three by three inch patch of skin is painted with the solution. The preferred sites are the abdomen, inner forearm or the inner thigh. It should be allowed to dry completely before you touch anything as staining can happen. The spot is observed for the following 24 hours for changes in the color.

What is emphasized in the test is the duration taken for the entire patch to vanish. If it is still there twenty four hours later, then the results are just normal. However, if it takes a less time than that to disappear, then this means there is a deficiency in absorption. To note is that if the disappearance or lightening is significant in duration less than 18 hours, the deficiency can be moderate or severe and this may be a cause for supplementation of iodin.

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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