Iodine is a trace element found in sea plants and vegetables that promotes good health. Iodine is important for the body and can be found in high amounts in the thyroid, liver, breast, lung, adrenal glands, and heart. Its key biological function is to generate thyroid hormones, which have major effects on cardiovascular health, metabolism, weight, and energy.
Determining how much iodine is good for the human body is one of the controversies in the field of iodine. There is currently no universally accepted iodine test that can assess optimum iodine dosing. Some experts believe the RDA (roughly 150 mcg per day) is sufficient, whereas others believe far higher quantities are needed and suggest supplementation.
Preparation:You must take your lab order to the lab to obtain a proper specimen container before collection. No fasting required. Urinate at 8am and discard the specimen. Then collect all urine in 24-hour period, ending with final collection at 8am the next morning. Refrigerate the collected urine between all voidings or keep it in a cool place. Screw the lid on securely. Transport the specimen promptly to the laboratory. Container must be labeled with full name, date and time collection started, and date and time collection finished.
Test Results:
2-4 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday or lab delays.
