If thyroid gland grows larger than normal the patient has a condition known as goiter. In a broad sense, a goitre means that the entire thyroid gland is swollen or enlarged.
Physicians say goitres are generally painless; however, if the gland gets very large the patient may have problems of swallowing properly and may also develop a cough. Goiters are more common in females than males. People of all ages can develop goiter. In some cases, it may be present at the time of birth. Like many other diseases, it is better to prevent the problem rather treating it. Worldwide, the most common reason for goiter is iodine deficiency and usually seen in countries that do not use iodized salt.
Iodine is a highly water-soluble trace element that’s present naturally in soil and seawater, especially near seacoasts. Most of the iodine we consume comes from what we eat and drink. Seafood is usually a good source because the ocean contains considerable iodine. Freshwater fish reflect the iodine content of the water in where they swim. Other foods vary tremendously in iodine content depending on their sources.
Indeed, elimination of iodine deficiency has been a major goal of the world Health Organization. Over the last 80 years, efforts have been made to eliminate iodine deficiency across the globe. Iodized salt has been the mainstay of treatment for iodine deficiency.
The Institute of Medicine has set the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for iodine in adult men and women at 150-ug per day. It’s neither an ignorable amount nor can easily be fulfilled by our daily food course.
-With New Age input
