Fact 14. Soil and Iodine Deficiency: The Environmental Connection
The environmental link to iodine deficiency is a largely overlooked aspect. The iodine content in our diets is directly influenced by the iodine content in the soil where our food is grown. Therefore, iodine-deficient soils can lead to iodine-deficient diets and, consequently, iodine-deficient populations.
Iodine is a naturally occurring element found in the earth’s crust. However, its distribution is uneven, resulting in varying iodine concentrations in soils worldwide. Regions with iodine-deficient soils, often found in mountainous areas, flood-prone river valleys, and regions far from the sea, are more likely to have iodine-deficient populations.
Furthermore, environmental changes can influence soil iodine content. Deforestation, soil erosion, and intensive farming can deplete soil iodine levels. Climate change, with its impacts on rainfall, temperature, and soil composition, can also affect soil iodine content, potentially exacerbating iodine deficiency problems.
The intricate link between iodine deficiency and environmental factors sheds light on the broader context of this nutritional shortfall. It emphasizes the need for environmental conservation and sustainable practices to address the root causes of iodine deficiency. (14)
