IODINE

Essential element in the diet. The thyroid gland uses iodine to make thyroid hormones. The two most important thyroid hormones are thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Thyroxine (T4) has four iodine molecules attached to its structure, while triiodothyronine (T3) has three iodine molecules attached. Iodine is found in seafood, bread, salt, and seaweed.