Iodine, an Effective Substance against the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

In addition to being an essential element in the production of thyroid hormones, iodine also has many biological functions. A potential benefit of iodine if consumed adequately includes increasing and improving immune function. Iodine can support the innate immune system in fighting bacterial and viral infections. The leukocyte myeloperoxidase enzyme uses iodine in cell-induced immunity. Like thyroid cells, this peroxidase uses hydrogen peroxide to oxidize tyrosine to the tyrosyl radical, and its inactivity causes immunodeficiency. In vitro, iodine has been shown to increase Immunoglobulin-G synthesis in human lymphocytes. Suppression and weakening of the immune system, which includes cytokine dysfunction and the acute phase response to infections, have a negative effect on inflammatory diseases. Therefore, iodine can play a significant role in the effective response to inflammatory diseases by strengthening the immune system. Another aspect of the effective use of iodine against contaminants, especially viral contaminants, is its use as an effective agent in disinfectants. So that, Povidone Iodine (PVP-I) is now widely used in dentistry and even surgery. At present, due to the widespread prevalence of COVID-19 and the low production and availability of vaccines in all countries, finding and providing appropriate, low-cost and affordable solutions to strengthen the immune system and combat COVID-19 is of great importance. Therefore, based on the information obtained, we hypothesize that adequate iodine intake, especially through dairy consumption, can strengthen the immune system in people and due to its antiviral and inflammatory properties, iodine can be used as a preventive agent against COVID-19.