What is potassium iodide (potassium iodide) ?
Potassium iodide is a chemical compound that contains iodine. It is a stable iodine (non-radioactive iodine) salt that can help stop radioactive iodine from being absorbed by the thyroid gland. It protects the thyroid gland against radioactive radiation (Center of Disease Control and Prevention). Iodine is an element that is necessary for the production of thyroid hormones. Note that the thyroid gland needs iodine to function properly and produce thyroid hormones.
How can potassium iodide (KI) protect the thyroid from radioactive radiation?
When the body is exposed to high levels of radiation such as a nuclear attack, the thyroid gland may absorb large amounts of radioactive iodine from the air. This causes serious damage to the thyroid. Potassium iodide (KI) works by saturating your thyroid with non-radioactive iodine. So there is no more room for your thyroid to absorb radioactive iodine from the air. Taking potassium iodide (KI) prevented serious damage to your thyroid.
Why to take iodine in case of radiation?
Generally, it is recommended to take potassium iodide in case of exposure to radioactive iodine. Potassium iodide (KI) is not intended for nutritional use. Potassium iodide (KI) (emergency use) should be used only in an emergency or as directed by public health authorities.
Does potassium iodide protect against all effects of radioactive radiation?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), potassium iodide only protects the thyroid. It has no effects against other radioactive elements that could be released into the environment (source WHO).
How do I get potassium iodide?
You can get potassium iodide (KI) in Win in heath stores or on its website. Don't forget to choose the "nuclear emergency only" formula, in case your purchase is for the protection of the thyroid against radioactive iodine.
What does Potassium Iodide (KI) 65mg do?
Potassium Iodide (KI) 65mg from New Roots is a thyroid blocking agent i.e. it helps to prevent the absorption of radioactive iodine by the thyroid. It is recommended to use it only in case of emergency, or in case of exposure to radioactive radiation.
What are the side effects of potassium iodide (KI)?
For people who suffer from disorders of the thyroid gland such as iodine disease, deficiency or sensitivity and autoimmune thyroiditis and for those who suffer from Graves' disease, the risk of side effects is very high (source Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission). People suffering from these diseases and pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare professional before using potassium iodide (KI). Generally the risk of side effects for people who do not have thyroid problems is very low.
Potassium iodide can help protect the thyroid gland from radioactive iodine absorption. This could potentially reduce the risk of developing thyroid cancer after radiation exposure (WHO). If you are concerned about being exposed to radiation, talk to your doctor about all uses.
References
Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (2022). Potassium iodide (KI) pill. [article Web], répéré le 24 mars 2022 à https://nuclearsafety.gc.ca/eng/resources/educational-resources/feature-articles/potassium-iodide-KI-pills.cfm
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2018). Potassium Iodide (KI). [article Web], répéré le 22 mars 2022 à https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/radiation/emergencies/ki.htm#whatIs
Organisation mondiale de la Santé (2022). Utilisation de l’iodure de potassium pour la protection de la thyroïde lors d’une situation d’urgence nucléaire ou radiologique. [article Web], répéré le 23 mars 2022 à https://www.who.int/fr/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/use-of-potassium-iodide-for-thyroid-protection-during-nuclear-or-radiological-emergencies
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