ITS WORLD IODINE DEFICIENCY DAY
ITS WORLD IODINE DEFICIENCY DAY
The TDAK Foundation joins the rest of the world to commemorate the World Iodine Deficiency Day, a day set to raise awareness about iodine’s essential role in maintaining good health and emphasize the consequences of iodine deficiency.
Iodine plays a very key role in the function of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland uses the highest amount of iodine absorbed by the body at any given time. The thyroid gland gland absorbs iodine from the blood and uses it to produce thyroid hormones Levothyroxine (T4) and Triiodothyronine (T3). The thyroid gland also stores some of the iodine as thyroglobulin, a protein that can be used to synthesize hormones later.
Global efforts to combat iodine deficiency have been impactful, with initiatives like Iodine Deficiency Day focusing on raising awareness about the critical role that iodine plays in thyroid function, growth, and development. Globally, an estimated 1.88 billion people are at risk of inadequate iodine intake, impacting nearly people of all ages; from neonates to infants, young teens, and adults. 
The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF have championed universal salt iodization since 1993, resulting in over 120 countries adopting iodization programs including Kenya.
These concerted efforts have led to a significant reduction in iodine deficiency disorders across the globe, contributing to the improvement of public health.
Iodine is naturally found in seawater and soil. Historically Iodine deficiency has been typically prevalent in inland (non-coastal regions) such as Central Asia, Central Africa as well as Central and Eastern Europe.
In Kenya, our soils are generally rich in Iodine. Hence our foods and plants grown in Iodine-rich soils, Seafood, Diary, eggs, and Iodized salts provide sufficient daily recommended Iodine.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends the following daily iodine intake by age:
Infants up to 6 months: 90 mcg
Infants 7 to 12 months: 120 mcg
Children aged 6-12 years: 120 mcg
Adults and adolescents: 150 mcg
Pregnant and lactating women: 250 mcg
While all population groups can be affected by Iodine deficiency, Pregnant women, and infants are at a higher risk. Iodine is key for;-
Thyroid hormone production: Iodine is used by the thyroid gland to make thyroid hormones, which control the body’s metabolism, growth, and development.
Brain and nervous system development: Iodine is essential for the development of the brain and nervous system, the 5 senses, alertness, and coordination for babies.
Bone growth: Iodine is important for the growth of bones and nerves. 
Metabolism: Iodine affects how proteins, fats, and carbohydrates are used in the body.
It is also essential for liver, Kidney, and reproductive among many other functions.
Ensure that you incorporate Iodized salt (the usual white salt) in your house.
PS: Pink Himalayan Salt is unrefined and therefore not iodized. (In case you were wondering 
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)Happy WIDD