7. Unhealthy Hair: Iodine Deficiency’s Unseen Consequences
You might not associate iodine deficiency with your child’s hair health, but these two aspects are interconnected. Dull, thinning hair, or even hair loss, can be a subtle sign of iodine deficiency.
Iodine plays an instrumental role in the synthesis of thyroid hormones, which are crucial for hair growth and health. When iodine levels drop, it can disrupt hair growth, leading to thin, brittle hair or even hair loss. This impact is not confined to the scalp; children might also experience thinning of their eyebrows.
However, identifying changes in hair health can be challenging. Hair loss or thinning may be gradual and barely noticeable until it becomes significant. Likewise, changes in hair texture might be subtle and easily overlooked. Moreover, children may not realize or be able to articulate these changes effectively.
It’s also important to understand that hair health is influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, diet, and hair care practices. Therefore, changes in hair may not necessarily mean iodine deficiency. But if these changes coincide with other signs on this list, it might be worthwhile to investigate iodine levels. (7)
