Iodine rich diet

By Faryn Clark


The normal function of thyroid gland, which synthesizes thyroid hormones, is maintained by a principal trace element, Iodine. One should ensure adequate intake of dietary iodine as it helps to perform various vital body functions such as the calcium homeostasis, detoxification, growth and development of body, and in the regulation of normal cellular metabolic rate. Inadequate intake of dietary iodine results in iron deficiency, with wide range of symptoms like hypothyroidism accompanied by swelling of the thyroid (goiter), lethargy, fatigue, suppressed immune function, slow metabolism, autism, depression weight gain, and anxiety to include a few. Hence, recommended intake of dietary iodine is vital for the regulatory function of thyroid gland. Read on to know the iodine rich foods that can boost the function of thyroid gland by increasing the iodine levels in the body, thus preventing various manifestations of thyroid disorders.

Kelp

In fact, any type of seafood is considered as a rich iodine source because the seawater contains highest levels of iodine. Kelp is one such source that contains iodine, which is one of the most edible seaweed and vegetables. Kelp is sold in either dried or fresh form in many grocery or super markets in Asian market. Kombu is a fresh form of kelp that has to be soaked in water and cooked. It can be added into the salad or a side vegetable.

Eggs

One of the richest source of iodine includes eggs. In general, the iodine level for each egg varies because it depends on the quantity of iodine that has been administered to the hen. A large egg that weighs up to 50 grams is estimated to contain an iodine content ranging from between 13 and 70mcg. An egg can contain up o 200mcg of iodine if the hen is well-fed with an iodine rich diet. The best advantage of consuming eggs is that one can consume a combination of egg and shrimp (another iodine rich source) as part of the diet.

Watercress

Watercress is a leafy vegetable that has been consumed by people since olden periods. Watercress sprigs contain abundant iodine and can be commonly used to garnish variety of foods. It also contains wide range of healthy nutrients like beta-carotene, vitamin C, B vitamins, potassium, vitamin K, calcium, and magnesium. In addition to that, watercress is one of plant source that is rich in iodine and is thus advised for people on a vegan diet.

Sea vegetables

The sea is considered as a biggest store house of sources that contain abundant iodine, which include kelp, arame, hiziki, kombu and wakame. A single serving of kelp can fill up the recommended daily iodine requirement by providing more than 4-fold iodine content to the body and thus, is the only source that contains richest levels of iodine. The iodine level in a tablespoon of various sea vegetables are as follows: a teaspoon of kelp contains 2000/mcg of iodine, a tablespoon of hiziki contains 780/mcg iodine, a tablespoon of arame contains 730/mcg iodine, an inch of kombu contains 1450/mcg iodine and a tablespoon of wakame contains 80/mcg of iodine. These sea vegetables can be used to garnish soups and salads.

Dairy Products

The iodine level in milk products depends on the cow's dietary intake of iodine, similarly as eggs. It is also reported that the seasonal variations can affect the iodine level of milk as the milk produced by the cow during summer contains lesser level of iodine than during winter. In fact, an average level of iodine in a cup of milk can range from between 58 and 116 mcg. Also, the milk produced by the sheeps and goats contains higher level of iodine than cow's milk. One of the richest iodine sources among dairy products is mozzarella cheese. Other iodine rich sources of probiotic products include cheese, yoghurt, butter milk and ice cream, to mention a few. Moreover, the iodine level can depend upon the source and form of dairy product.

Foods fortified with iodine or Iodized Salt

Research claims that one can meet with the daily iodine requirement by the incorporation of iodized salt containing foods to the diet. Many countries have been producing iodized salt according to the national salt iodination standards as set by the WHO and various other organizations. Iodizing salt is considered as the essential source that helps to overcome iodine deficiency. It can be included in any dish and is extremely low in cost. UNICEF reports that around 66 percent households all utilizing iodized salt all across the world.




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