NOTE: This test is ONLY AVAILABLE TO AUSTRALIAN RESIDENTS.
Current public health recommendations to restrict salt intake, combined with a decline in the use of iodophors by the dairy industry and in commercial bread production, has lead to the re-emergence of this mineral deficiency around the world. Since iodine is required for the synthesis of thyroid hormones, the major indication of iodine deficiency include hypothyroid symptoms. An iodine deficiency during pregnancy can result in cretism, lowered IQ, mental retardation and stunted growth. Iodine may also play a role in the maintenance of healthy breast tissue and cancer prevention. Its antioxidant, immune regulating and estrogen modulating functions may be mechanisms by which these properties can be explained.
Research has indicated that severe iodine deficiency has more than quadrupled in Australia over the last 20 years; increasing from 2.6% to 11.7%. Even more disconcerting is the observation that nearly half of the pregnant women in these areas also have this mineral deficiency.
Iodine Loading Test: Assesses iodine deficiency firstly by measuring iodine levels in a morning spot urinary specimen (random iodine test) and the loading test analyses iodine deficiency using a much more sensitive technique. For this part of the test, 50mg of an iodine/iodide mixture is given as a loading dose and the amount of iodine excreted in the urine over the next 24 hours is measured.
If the patient is iodine deficient, the body retains the iodine and only a small quantity of the mineral is excreted into the urine. If the patient has sufficient iodine levels, the body does not retain the iodine and the majority of the iodine dosage is excreted into the 24 hour urinary sample. In contrast to the random iodine test, the iodine loading test is able to detect mild and moderate as well as severe deficiencies.
Introduction
Iodine is a vital mineral that plays a crucial role in maintaining thyroid function, growth, and development. It is essential for the production of thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism, energy production, and overall health. Despite its importance, iodine deficiency is a widespread health issue that affects millions of people worldwide. In this article, we will discuss the importance of iodine, the benefits of taking the iodine test, and how to interpret the results.
What is Iodine?
Iodine is a naturally occurring mineral found in various foods, including seafood, dairy products, and iodised table salt. It is essential for the production of thyroid hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), which regulate metabolism, growth, and development. Since the body does not produce iodine, it must be obtained through diet or supplements to ensure proper thyroid function and overall health.
Importance of Iodine
Iodine is crucial for maintaining thyroid function, which is essential for overall health. Thyroid hormones regulate metabolism, energy production, and growth, and play a critical role in the development of the brain and nervous system. Iodine deficiency can lead to a range of health problems, including hypothyroidism, weight gain, and impaired cognitive function. Ensuring adequate iodine intake is vital for preventing these issues and supporting the body’s metabolic processes.
Analytes
- creatinine
- Iodine (post loading)
- Iodine (random)
- Iodine excretion %
Test Method
Automated Chemistry
Symptoms Of Iodine Deficiency
Being iodine deficient can lead to various health problems, most of which are a result of thyroid dysfunction because the thyroid needs iodine to function correctly. Some of the symptoms of iodine deficiency resulting in thyroid dysfunction, such as hypothyroidism, include:
- Reproductive Health
- Decreased fertility
- Mental and Emotional Health
- Depression
- Endocrine and Hormonal Health
- Estrogen imbalance
- Thyroid abnormalities
- Other Health Conditions
- Fatigue
- Fibrocystic breast disease
- Nutritional and Dietary Symptoms
- Weight gain
About The Test
All tests come with full instructions, including a pre-authorised practitioner script.
Home test kits come with everything you need to complete the test, including free express post return postage to the laboratory.
All pathology test kits come with a preauthorised script (including test kit/s if required) to take to your local pathology test centre.
You can click here to find a pathology near you.
Turn-around time: 7 days
The Iodine Test
Also see additional nutritional tests here.
Have you checked your iodine levels?
The iodine deficiency urine test is a simple test you can do right from your home or office. The test involves collecting a urine sample for analysis, which only takes a minute and provides an accurate account of your iodine levels. It measures your body’s iodine levels, helping you determine if your iodine is balanced or if you have an iodine deficiency.
Why Take the Iodine Test?
The iodine test is a simple and effective way to determine iodine levels in the body. It is especially important for individuals who are at risk of iodine deficiency, including pregnant women, smokers, and those with vegan or vegetarian diets. By identifying iodine deficiency early, the test allows for prompt treatment and prevention of related health problems. Taking the iodine test can help ensure that your body has the necessary iodine to maintain healthy thyroid function and overall well-being.
Thyroid Problems
Thyroid abnormalities are one of the most common endocrine disorders affecting millions worldwide. The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in hormone production, and its function is significantly impacted by iodine levels in the body. Thyroid hormones are well known for their role in basal metabolic rate, development and growth. Therefore, it is understandable that abnormalities in the level of thyroid hormones can lead to a diverse array of symptoms involving the heart, brain, skin and reproductive systems. Chronic stress can deplete thyroid function as the stress hormone cortisol inhibits thyroid function. Autoimmune disease of the thyroid can cause both hypo and hyperthyroidism, as the antibodies can either block or stimulate the thyroid receptors.
Iodine Deficiency & Pregnancy
An iodine deficiency during pregnancy can result in birth defects, lowered IQ, mental retardation and stunted growth. High blood pressure is also a potential risk associated with iodine deficiency during pregnancy. Iodine may also play a role in the maintenance of healthy breast tissue. The World Health Organization has also related iodine deficiency to infertility. Iodine is most important for women, because it is most highly concentrated in the thyroid, breasts and ovaries. Iodine deficiency can lead to menstrual irregularities, infertility, early menopause, and ovarian diseases.
Have any questions about this test? Ask one of our qualified health practitioners here.
For Australian Orders we provide an express postage reply-paid envelope with the Test Kit for you to send your test sample directly to our pathology laboratory in Australia.
For Overseas Orders please allow up to 10 days for your Test Kit to be delivered. Please also note return postage to our testing laboratory in Australia is not included. We suggest you use your country’s air postage service instead of international couriers to avoid excess postage fees.
