Iodine – Random (Urinary)

Description

NOTE:  This test is ONLY AVAILABLE TO AUSTRALIAN RESIDENTS.

Iodine Deficiency is the commonest worldwide cause of thyroid disorders. A low iodine diet can cause hypothyroidism, an enlarged thyroid gland (goitre) and can affect fertility, pregnancy and neuro-developmental disorders in newborns.

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.

Random Iodine Test: The standard procedure used to detect iodine deficiencies. It measures iodine levels in a random urinary specimen. The disadvantage of this is it is not a sensitive test for detecting mild or moderate iodine 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 (random)
• Iodine corrected

Test Method

ICP-MS (Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry)

Common Conditions

• Reproductive Health
  • Decreased fertility
• Mental and Emotional Health
  • Depression
• Endocrine and Hormonal Health
  • Estrogen imbalance
• Other Health Conditions
  • Fatigue
  • Fibrocystic breast disease
  • Hypothyroidism
• Nutritional and Dietary Symptoms
  • Weight gain

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.