Iodine Test

Iodine is an important element that is required by our body for normal metabolism of the cells. It is also essential for the production of thyroid hormones from the thyroid gland. A deficiency in iodine can cause hypothyroidism, goiter and hyperthyroidism. An iodine test is used to check whether a person is suffering from thyroid disorders and also used to test for the presence of starch. Even if a person might not suffer from thyroid disorders due to low levels of iodine in a body, it can still make a person feel tired and worn out. Other side effects of low iodine levels in the body are insomnia, aches and pains and chronic fatigue. The iodine test besides detecting whether a person is suffering from thyroid problems, is also effective in detecting cervical cancer.

Iodine Test for Starch

As mentioned earlier, an iodine test is done to test for the presence of starch. The basic principle of this test is that when an iodine solution (i.e. aqueous solution of potassium iodide) comes in contact in starch, the solution turns blue black in color. Starch which is found in carbohydrate rich foods like potatoes, rice, corn and barley can be separated into two fractions - amylose and amylopectin. In the presence of iodine, amylose in starch forms a deep blue color. As strach is nothing but carbohydrates, the iodine test for carbohydrates is same as that of starch.

Iodine Test for Thyroid

One of the most important iodine test is that for detecting thyroid problems. The thyroid gland is one of the most important in a person's body as it helps to balance hormones, regulate heatbeat, maintain ideal weight, provide energy, stabilize cholesterol, keep menstrual cycles regular and encourages muscle growth. When a person has a deficiency of iodine, it hampers with the production of thyroid hormone. When a person shows iodine deficiency symptoms, an iodine deficiency test is done.

In this test, a sample of the person's urine is collected in the morning for an iodine spot test. After that 50 mg of iodine is ingested and urine is collected throughout the day till the next morning. Then all the urine samples are sent to the laboratory to be tested. If the body has sufficient amount of iodine, then at least 90 percent of the iodine will be excreted into the urine. However, if there is a deficiency of iodine, then less amount of it will be excreted, as the body will try to hold on the iodine to make up for the deficiency. After the test results, a person is given iodine supplements if he/she is seen to have an iodine deficiency. Your doctor can tell you if you are suffering from thyroid and will provide medication for the same.

If you want to do an iodine test at home, then it is possible to do so with an iodine patch test which is also known as iodine skin test. For this, you will need to purchase tincture of iodine from a pharmacy. Before you go to sleep at night, apply a 3 by 3 inch patch of iodine on the underside of the forearm or inner thigh. When you wake up in the morning, check the color of the iodine patch. If there is no color remaining on your skin, it implies that you are iodine deficient. It is best to see your doctor who will advice you on your next step.

Iodine deficiency is very common but most people are not aware of this. Eating iodine rich foods is one of the ways to ensure that you have optimal iodine in your body. An iodine test is the best way to know if you are a victim of iodine deficiency and will also help you to prevent thyroid problems.