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Iodine-Rich Foods
Iodine is a trace mineral. The only established role of iodine in humans is as a component of
thyroid hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Thyroid hormones regulate many
important biochemical reactions, including protein synthesis and enzymatic activity, and are
critical determinants of metabolic activity. They are also required for proper skeletal and central
nervous system development in fetuses and infants.
Iodine deficiency
Iodine deficiency has adverse effects on growth and development. During pregnancy and early
infancy, iodine deficiency can cause irreversible effects, including mental retardation, deafness,
stunted growth, and delayed sexual maturation.
Symptoms of iodine deficiency in adults include hypothyroidism, frequently accompanied by
goiter.
Daily recommendation
It is recommended that healthy adults consume 150 micrograms of iodine/day.
Food sources
The amount of iodine in fruits and vegetables varies depending on the iodine content of the soil,
fertilizer use, and irrigation practices.
Foods that are high in iodine include:
 Cow’s milk
 Eggs
 Iodized salt
 Kelp/sea vegetables
 Mozzarella cheese
 Seafood
 Yogurt
Excessive intake
High intakes of iodine can cause some of the same symptoms as low intakes, including
hypothyroidism.
References and recommended readings
Iodine. National Institute of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements website.
http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iodine-HealthProfessional/. Accessed July 7, 2014.
Laurberg P. Iodine. In: Ross AC, Callero B, Cousins RJ, Tucker KL, Ziegler TR, eds. Modern
Nutrition in Health and Disease. 11th ed. Baltimore, MD: Lippincott, Williams, and Wilkins;
2014:217-224.
Review Date 7/14
G-1030