Conditions that may be monitored through the use of this urine iodine test include iodine-induced hypothyroidism, autoimmune inflammation of the thyroid gland, and hyperthyroidism associated with excessive iodine intake.

This urine test is used to monitor thyroid problems such as iodine-induced hypothyroidism, autoimmune inflammation of the thyroid gland, and hyperthyroidism associated with excessive iodine intake.

Iodine is a health-promoting trace element naturally occurring in sea vegetables and plants. Found in high levels in the thyroid, breast, liver, lung, heart, and adrenals; iodine is essential for the body and is detected in every organ and tissue. Its primary biological role is in the production of the thyroid hormones, which have powerful influences on cardiovascular health, energy, metabolism, and weight.

One of the controversies in the field of iodine is determining how much is good for the human body. Currently, there is no generally agreed upon iodine test that can evaluate optimal iodine dosing. Some experts claim that the RDA is appropriate (about 150 mcg per day), while others claim that much larger amounts are needed and recommend supplementation.

Instructions

How to collect a 24-hour urine specimen:

• Do not urinate directly into the container. Urine should be collected in another clean container and then carefully poured into the 24 hour collection container.
• Empty bladder completely on awakening in the morning and discard this urine specimen. Record date and time under "start" and begin the test. (i.e. 6/22/14 @ 7:00 a.m.)
• All urine passed during the rest of the day and night for the next 24 hours must be poured into the container.
• Make final collection the next morning at the exact time recorded under start below. Record the date and time under "finish". (i.e. 6/23/14 @ 7:00 a.m.)
• Take the 24 hour specimen to the physician's office or laboratory as soon as possible.

Fasting is not required for this test. Take all medications as prescribed.

Note

This test is not designed to determine optimal iodine status in an individual choosing to supplement with iodine; careful consideration of other thyroid function tests as well as clinical symptoms is essential.