Where is iodine absorbed in the human body?
Quick Answer
Iodine is absorbed mainly in the small intestine after it is eaten or drank in food and water. It is then concentrated in the thyroid gland in the neck.
The Full Story
Iodine enters the body through the digestive system and is absorbed primarily in the small intestine. After absorption, much of it is transported to the thyroid gland, where it is used to make thyroid hormones such as thyroxine. The thyroid sits in the front of the neck and depends on iodine to function properly. Without enough iodine, people can develop goiter and thyroid hormone deficiency. Iodized salt, introduced widely in the 20th century, helped reduce iodine-deficiency disorders in many countries.
Key Facts
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