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.

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.

For the original color of iodin to change, several factors have to come in play. The skin is what reduces iodin to iodide causing a color change as the resulting compound is white in color. Ambient temperatures and also the atmospheric pressures affect the rate of evaporation of iodin from the skin. There is a reliable way of determining iodin levels in the body known as loading test.

Thyroid dysfunction may be the cause of low levels. Iodin is required by the gland for several purposes including maintaining of a positive attitude mentally, providing energy, keeping the menstrual cycles ordered, muscle growth enhancement, weight control, stabilizing cholesterol levels, regulation of heartbeats and hormone balancing.

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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