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65 Iodine Rich Foods, Fruits & Vegetables to Include in Your Diet

Maintaining good thyroid function and general well-being requires ensuring a sufficient supply of iodine. One way of achieving this is through eating fruits, vegetables, and foods rich in iodine. This article provides various delicious options for nutritious meals, including seafood, dairy products, and different plant-based sources. 

The knowledge of these types of meals helps promote overall health by supporting the proper functioning of the thyroid gland. Incorporating Iodine-rich foods into your daily meals can help meet your body's requirements for this vital element.

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What is Iodine?

Iodine is a trace element that is necessary for the production of thyroid hormones. The main function of these hormones in the body is to regulate metabolism, growth and development. If there isn’t enough iodine, then it becomes impossible for the thyroid gland to work properly, which can cause such health problems as goitre or hypothyroidism. Because our bodies don't make this nutrient independently, we must get it from our food. 

Seafood, including fish or shellfish, dairy products like milk or cheese, and eggs are all good dietary sources of iodine. It’s important for physical and mental well-being, too, because even a slight deficiency may impair cognitive ability.

What are the Sources of Iodine?

Iodine can be found in various foods, including fish, shrimp, and seaweed. Additionally, dairy products like milk, yoghurt, and cheese are good sources of iodine. Some fruits and vegetables, such as strawberries, potatoes, and spinach, also contain small amounts of iodine. Finally, iodised salt, fortified with iodine, is a common dietary source of this essential nutrient.

Top 65 Food Items High in Iodine

Iodine is a vital nutrient for the well-being of the thyroid gland and general health. It is important to eat iodine-rich foods to meet your daily dietary needs. We have compiled a list below of 65 different types of food that contain high levels of iodine. 

These range from fish, shellfish, and other seafood to dairy products like milk and cheese. They also include fruits such as strawberries or bananas, vegetables such as broccoli or spinach, and grains like bread made from whole wheat flour, among many others too numerous to mention here! 

Adding these nutritious choices to your meals could support good working order for the thyroid gland while fostering overall well-being.

List of Iodine Rich Vegetables

Most people do not consider vegetables as sources of iodine, but some types contain significant amounts of this essential element. Therefore, you must include such vegetables into your diet to increase the intake rate for iodides while keeping the thyroid healthy.

SNo.

Vegetables Iodine Content (Per 100 grams)
1 Seaweed (nori) 1,989 mcg
2 Seaweed (kelp) 1,736 mcg
3 Seaweed (wakame) 139 mcg
4 Potatoes 7 mcg
5 Spinach 3 mcg
6 Corn 2 mcg
7 Lima Beans 1 mcg
8 Garlic 3 mcg
9 Onions 3 mcg
10 Broccoli 2 mcg
11 Brussels Sprouts 2 mcg
12 Green Beans 2 mcg

List of Fruits Rich in Iodine

Ordinarily, fruits are not associated with high levels of iodide, although a few exceptions exist where measurable quantities can be found within them. Such fruits should be consumed often enough to provide nutritional benefits and maintain adequate levels of iodine.

SNo.

Fruits Iodine Content (Per 100 grams)
13 Strawberries 13 mcg
14 Prunes 5 mcg
15 Cranberries 2 mcg
16 Bananas 2 mcg
17 Pineapple 1 mcg
18 Kiwi 1 mcg
19 Oranges 1 mcg

List of Cereals and Dairy Products Containing Iodine

Cereal and dairy products are typically enriched with iodine to correct deficiencies and guarantee adequacy. A good way of supplying the body with adequate amounts of iodine and promoting thyroid function involves introducing these foods into your diet.

SNo.

Cereals and Dairy Products Iodine Content (Per 100 grams)
20 Cow's Milk (non-fat) 85 mcg
21 Yoghurt 13 mcg
22 Cheddar Cheese 23 mcg
23 Mozzarella Cheese 14 mcg
24 Cottage Cheese 14 mcg
25 Ice Cream 12 mcg
26 Ricotta Cheese 34 mcg
27 Swiss Cheese 11 mcg
28 Gouda Cheese 14 mcg
29 Feta Cheese 13 mcg
30 Camembert Cheese 16 mcg
31 Butter 2 mcg

List of Seeds and Nuts Rich in Iodine

Seeds and nuts have high nutritional value as snacks and in providing iodine. Some other foods may contain higher levels of this mineral than them, but including such seeds/nuts can still give our bodies important nutrients, including this essential mineral.

SNo.

Seeds and Nuts Iodine Content (Per 100 grams)
32 Sunflower Seeds 3 mcg
33 Sesame Seeds 5 mcg
34 Pumpkin Seeds 5 mcg
35 Flaxseeds 9 mcg
36 Chia Seeds 7 mcg
37 Almonds 2 mcg
38 Brazil Nuts 11 mcg
39 Cashews 7 mcg
40 Walnuts 5 mcg
41 Pecans 3 mcg
42 Pine Nuts 5 mcg
43 Hazelnuts 7 mcg
44 Macadamia Nuts 2 mcg
45 Pistachios 7 mcg
46 Hemp Seeds 15 mcg
47 Poppy Seeds 13 mcg

List of Animal and Seafood High in Iodine

Regarding iodine content, animal-based foods, especially seafood, rank among the top sources. Therefore, if you want to increase your intake of this element significantly while at the same time supporting thyroid health, include animal products that are rich in iodine or, even better, go for seafood.

SNo.

Animal and Seafood Iodine Content (Per 100 grams)
48 Cod 99 mcg
49 Tuna 45 mcg
50 Shrimp 35 mcg
51 Salmon 27 mcg
52 Lobster 100 mcg
53 Oysters 160 mcg
54 Mussels 92 mcg
55 Clams 100 mcg
56 Haddock 60 mcg
57 Sardines 15 mcg
58 Anchovies 64 mcg
59 Crab 100 mcg
60 Halibut 70 mcg
61 Trout 80 mcg
62 Herring 80 mcg
63 Pollock 60 mcg
64 Sole 50 mcg
65 Mackerel 10 mcg

How Much Iodine Should You Intake?

According to the National Institutes of Health, the appropriate daily intake of Iodine is essential for maintaining optimal health. The recommended amount varies depending on age, sex, and life stage. The table given below outlines the recommended daily intake of Iodine for different demographics:

Age Group

Recommended Iodine Intake (micrograms per day)
Infants 0-6 months 110 mcg
Infants 7-12 months 130 mcg
Children 1-3 years 90 mcg
Children 4-8 years 90 mcg
Children 9-13 years 120 mcg
Teens 14-18 years 150 mcg
Adults 19+ years 150 mcg
Pregnant Teens/ Adults 220 mcg
Lactating Teens/  Adults 290 mcg

Health Benefits of Iodine Rich Foods

Several benefits come with consuming food which contains lots of iodine besides just supporting the function of the thyroid gland. This article will give you a glimpse into how such meals can improve your general health and wellness.

  • Thyroid Function: For metabolism regulation, energy production and general bodily functions, thyroid hormones are produced through iodine inclusion. 
  • Metabolism Regulation: Adequate intake of iodine helps metabolic activities so that food can be changed into energy effectively. 
  • Brain Development: Consuming foods with a high iodine content supports cognitive functions in the development stages and enhances memory abilities.
  • Energy Levels: Iodine-based thyroid hormones control our energy levels; therefore, we should never allow tiredness to enter our systems. 
  • Healthy Skin and Hair: Iodine keeps the skin healthy, hair shiny, and nails strong, which are some of its beauty benefits.
  • Immune System Support: The element has antiseptic characteristics while still being able to stimulate the body’s defence mechanisms against diseases-causing pathogens, too.

Different Ways to Include Iodine Rich Foods in Your Diet

Ingesting foods full of iodine is vital for thyroid health insurance and well-being. Here’s a fast review of several methods to efficiently include these nutritious choices.

  • Use Seafood: To increase iodine intake, eat seafood such as trout, mackerel, lobster, and clams. Some dishes you can have are sushi, grilled fish, or seafood salads.
  • Utilise Iodised Salt: To add iodine to your meals, use iodised salt instead of regular salt when cooking and seasoning food. You can also put it in soups, stews, pasta dishes, and salads to enhance flavour and increase iodine intake.
  • Incorporate Seaweed in Recipes: You can eat different kinds of seaweeds like nori, kelp or wakame by adding them into your diet and tossing them up with salads, soups, stir-fries or sushi rolls. 
  • Include Dairy Products: Dairy foods, such as milk and yoghurt cheese, contain this element, too. For example, one could have a cupful of yoghurt mixed with fruits using some cheddar cheese slices on lettuce wraps. 
  • Eat Eggs: One can include eggs in their daily menus by making omelettes, frittatas or scrambled ones. They can also be tossed into green leafy vegetable-based salads.

What are the Symptoms of Iodine Deficiency?

The indications that one has an insufficient supply of iodine vary from those affecting mental faculties to those interfering with mood, or the overall state of being aware of them enables one to act fast. Here are a few signs that can help determine iodine deficiency.

What are the Health Risks of Not Getting Enough Iodine?

When the body receives insufficient iodine, many processes are affected, including brain development. Thus, the significance of recognising potential threats linked to poor dieting habits lacking this essential mineral is underlined.

  • Thyroid Issues: If insufficient iodine is taken, there might be thyroid diseases, for instance, hypothyroidism and goitre. These conditions can have signs like weariness, neck enlargement or weight gain.
  • Reduced Cognitive Performance: Babies’ cognitive development may be retarded when they lack iodine. At the same time, in the womb or during their early years, it lowers their IQ points and causes learning disorders besides developmental delays.
  • Complications during Pregnancy: If a pregnant woman does not consume enough iodine, it could result in premature births, stillbirths or even miscarriages and also mental retardation, among other things, such as a physical disability in her baby after birth too.
  • Swelling of the Neck (Goiter): Visible enlargement at the front part of the throat called a Goitre happens due to an enlarged thyroid gland caused by low levels of Iodide ions used by this organ. It may cause discomfort when swallowing food as well as breathing difficulties.
  • High Infant Death Rate: The brains of babies whose mothers had severe shortages of Iodide ions during pregnancy fail to function properly, leading them to have reduced intelligence quotient, which leads to increased mortality rates among infants.
  • Metabolic Abnormalities: When insufficient iodide ion supply within cells, normal metabolism gets disturbed, resulting in tiredness, weight increase and difficulty maintaining a healthy body size.

What are the Side Effects of Excessive Iodine Intake?

An excess of anything can cause problems, even though it might be valuable in achieving goals like maintaining an optimally functioning thyroid gland and general physical well-being; therefore, knowing what could happen if you overdo iodine consumption is crucial for ensuring a balanced diet and staying healthy.

  • Autoimmune Thyroid Disorders: Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Graves’ disease are among autoimmune thyroid disorders that can be set off or worsened by high quantities of iodine.
  • Goitre: Compared with iodine deficiency, too much iodine consumption also leads to goitre, where the thyroid gland enlarges, making a visible swelling in the neck, thus interfering with breathing or swallowing.
  • Thyroid Storm: Overabundance of iodine may cause a life-threatening condition known as thyroid storm in persons having hyperthyroidism; this is characterised by extremely rapid heartbeats, fever, confusion and many others.
  • Cancer Risk: Some research shows that high levels could make nodules grow faster, thereby turning them into malignant tumours and eventually increasing the risks of cancer.
  • Digestive Disturbances: One thing people should know is that too much intake of iodine can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain, especially if you are allergic or intolerant to it.
  • Allergic Reactions: Some individuals might develop an allergy to Iodine, so they are likely to experience signs like rashes all over their body coupled with itching accompanied by swelling and difficulty breathing.

Should You Take an Iodine Supplement?

Depending on each person's situation, iodine supplements may or may not be taken. This has to be discussed with a healthcare provider as they may recommend dietary sources if these are low or supplementation when there is known iodine insufficiency. 

However, taking too much iodine through supplements can have negative effects, such as messing up with the thyroid or causing iodine toxicity; hence, care should always be taken while using them. A medical professional will evaluate your iodine status based on individual health needs and risk factors and then give personalised advice.

To promote thyroid health, metabolism, and overall well-being, you must include foods, fruits, and vegetables with high amounts of iodine. Plenty of tasty and nutritious options are available, ranging from fish, milk and products to fruits, vegetables and seeds. 

In conclusion, incorporating iodine-rich foods into your diet can greatly benefit your overall health. By including fruits and vegetables such as strawberries, potatoes, and spinach, along with seafood like shrimp and cod, you ensure your body receives an essential mineral crucial for thyroid function. With a balanced intake of these nutritious options, you can support your metabolism, energy levels, and cognitive function.

FAQs about Iodine Rich Foods, Fruits & Vegetables

What foods are very high in iodine?

Animals and seafood like fish and prawns are very high in iodine. But a certain vegetable, seaweed, is also rich in iodine.

Which fruits have iodine?

Strawberries, cranberries and prunes have good iodine.

What are the symptoms of a lack of iodine?

Unexpected weight gain, severe tiredness, muscle weakness, depression and low and feeble heartbeat are a few symptoms of lack of iodine.

How can I eat iodine naturally?

You can include a variety of foods high in iodine in your diet, such as fish, seaweed, shrimp, milk, and cheese.

Which fairy is rich in iodine?

Non-fat cow's milk is rich in iodine, with 85 mcg of iodine in 100 grams or 97 ml.

Do bananas have iodine?

Yes, although bananas are not a rich source of iodine, they contain a small amount, 2 mcg per 100 grams.

What is the best source of iodine?

Seaweeds such as nori, kelp and wakame are the best sources of iodine.

How to check iodine deficiency?

Iodine deficiency is best checked by a 24-hour urine sample, i.e. AM and PM samples should be taken for correct analysis.

How to correct iodine deficiency?

A higher element intake can treat iodine deficiency through foods or supplements. However, it is best to consult your doctor before taking any further steps.

Does yoghurt contain iodine?

Yes, like any other dairy product, yoghurt also contains a good amount of iodine, i.e. 13 mcg in 100 grams.

How much iodine is recommended for daily intake?

A normal adult is recommended 150 mcg of iodine intake per day.

What are the benefits of iodine?

Iodine helps with thyroid problems, metabolism regulation, and increasing an individual's energy levels.

Does all salt have iodine?

No, only table salt has iodine content, but when searching for salt, it lacks iodine.

Which vegetable has more iodine?

Seaweeds like nori, kelp, and wakame are very rich sources of vegetable iodine.

Can lack of iodine cause hair loss?

Yes, iodine helps regulate thyroid hormones, and low thyroid is one of the causes of hair loss.

What is the best indicator of iodine deficiency?

Swelling in the front of the neck is the best indicator of iodine deficiency.

Does garlic have iodine?

Yes, although a very small amount of garlic has iodine, i.e. 3 mcg per 100 grams.

What seafood is the richest source of iodine?

Fishes like cod and tuna, shrimp, lobster and salmon are kinds of seafood highly rich in iodine.