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Iodine Bioavailability

Meaning

Iodine bioavailability refers to the specific fraction of ingested iodine that is effectively absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, transported through the circulation, and successfully utilized by the thyroid gland for the synthesis of thyroid hormones. This metric is a critical determinant of thyroid health, as it quantifies the true physiological availability of this essential trace mineral, moving beyond simple dietary intake measurements. Optimal iodine bioavailability is necessary for the production of adequate levels of thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which are vital regulators of systemic metabolism, growth, and development.