Top Foods High in Iodine

This post was written with Consensus AI Academic Search Engine – please read our Disclaimer at the end of this article. Iodine is an essential trace element necessary for thyroid hormone synthesis and overall health. It is crucial to include iodine-rich foods in the diet to prevent iodine deficiency, which can lead to various health issues, including thyroid dysfunction and developmental problems in children. This article explores some of the top foods high in iodine, based on recent research findings.

Seafood

Fish

Fish is one of the richest sources of iodine. Marine fish, in particular, are known for their high iodine content. A study on gilthead seabream demonstrated that fish can be effectively fortified with iodine through dietary supplementation, making it a functional food that can significantly contribute to daily iodine intake. A 160g portion of steam-cooked seabream fillets can cover approximately 80% of the Daily Recommended Intake for iodine3.

Seaweed

Seaweed is another excellent source of iodine, especially varieties like Laminaria digitata. Despite its high iodine content, seaweed is not commonly consumed in Western diets. However, incorporating even low levels of seaweed into the diet has been shown to improve iodine status significantly1. Seaweed can be a potent natural supplement to boost iodine intake.

Dairy Products

Milk

Milk and dairy products are important dietary sources of iodine in many countries. A study comparing iodine bioavailability from cow milk found that nearly all the iodine in milk is in the form of iodide, and its bioavailability is high. This makes milk an efficient source of iodine, with a significant portion of the ingested iodine being absorbed by the body4. Regular consumption of milk can help maintain adequate iodine levels.

Other Dairy Products

Other dairy products, such as cheese and yogurt, also contribute to iodine intake. In a study on Norwegian preschool children, it was found that low intake of sweet milk and other dairy products was associated with low iodine status. Consuming dairy products at least twice a day was linked to better iodine levels in the body2.

Eggs

Eggs are another good source of iodine. They are versatile and can be easily incorporated into various meals. Including eggs in the diet can help meet the daily iodine requirements, especially when combined with other iodine-rich foods like seafood and dairy products2.

Conclusion

Incorporating iodine-rich foods such as fish, seaweed, milk, dairy products, and eggs into the diet is essential for maintaining adequate iodine levels and preventing deficiency. These foods not only provide the necessary iodine but also offer other nutritional benefits, making them valuable components of a balanced diet. Regular consumption of these foods can help ensure sufficient iodine intake and support overall health.

Disclaimer

The content presented in this blog is generated by Consensus, an AI-powered academic search engine, and is based on publicly available scientific literature. While every effort is made to provide accurate, up-to-date, and well-researched information, the content is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding medical conditions, treatments, or medications. The AI system’s analysis may not cover all perspectives, emerging research, or individual cases, and it is not a substitute for professional expertise. Neither the blog publisher nor the developers of the AI-powered search engine are responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this content. Use of this information is at your own risk. Citations to the original scientific studies are included for reference, but these studies should be reviewed in full and interpreted with the guidance of a healthcare or research professional.

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