Top 10 Iodine Rich Foods

Iodine is a trace mineral that plays a critical role in the formation of the primary thyroid hormone, thyroxine.

An iodine deficiency will result in an enlarged thyroid gland or goiter, in order to try to trap as many iodine molecules as possible. On the other hand, excess iodine not being absorbed by the body can also cause a goiter on the thyroid. And those who have been diagnosed with Hashimoto's thyroiditis or certain cases of hypothyroidism should work with their doctors to address iodine deficiency.

Iodine deficiency also causes cretinism, a form of mental retardation in infants. Sadly, this condition is completely preventable with adequate maternal iodine intake. The iodine content of food varies greatly depending on the soil where the food has been grown.

The RDA for iodine is 150 mcg/day and the Daily Value is also 150 mcg/day.

Top 10 Iodine Rich Foods

1) Dried seaweed ¼ oz: 4500 mcg (over 100% DV)

2) Codfish 3 oz: 99 mcg (66% DV)

3) Yogurt 1 cup: 87 mcg (58% DV)

4) Turkey breast 3 oz: 34 mcg (23% DV)

5) Navy beans ½ cup: 32 mcg (21% DV)

6) Tuna 3 oz: 17 mcg (11% DV)

7) Eggs 1 large: 12 mcg (8% DV)

8) Baked potato 1 medium: 60 mcg (40% DV)

9) Strawberries 1 cup: 13 mcg (8.6% DV)

10) Cranberries 1 oz 90 mcg (60% DV)

Try and consume 2­3 of the iodine food sources daily if a deficiency is present.

Top Health Benefits of Iodine

Thyroid Health

The thyroid cannot function without iodine to make the hormone thyroxine. Without thyroxine, the body is unable to regulate metabolism, heart function, temperature, reproduction, and growth. It can also affect weight, cognitive ability, and mood. The best way to get iodine is naturally through your diet.

Skin health

A lack of iodine will result in dry, flaky skin and a lack of sweating. Sweating is critical to the body to release toxins and maintain proper body temperature. Iodine deficiency will also result in a dry mouth and lack of saliva.

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Top 10 Iodine Rich Foods.pdfReferences: Dr. Axe, Deeply Holistic, Pip Waller