About 10% of the world's population lacks access to iodized salt. Additionally, people who live at higher altitudes have very little iodine in their diet. Vegans also run the risk of being iodine deficient as they do not consume dairy or fish. People in regions far from the sea and at higher altitudes live in natural environments that contain very little iodine.
Seafood and dairy products are some of the greatest sources of iodine. People who are pregnant also require a steady supply of iodine. They need 50% more iodine than non-pregnant people to get enough iodine for their unborn babies. The best way to prevent iodine deficiency is to eat foods containing iodine.
What is The Source of Our Iodine?
Most of the iodized salt comes from dairy, eggs, fish, sardines, and seaweed. Unfortunately, most of the iodine in the US diet comes from processed foods, much of which is not iodized. Most Americans get their salt intake from processed foods such as canned goods. However, processed foods rarely contain iodized salt. These foods are usually made with non-iodized salt, so they don’t help with your iodine intake. Other salts, including sea salt, kosher salt, Himalayan salt, and fleur de sel, do not contain iodine either.
Complications of Iodine Deficiency
The main symptoms of iodine deficiency are hypothyroidism or underactive thyroid. Underactive thyroid leads to fatigue, weight gain, and sometimes cold intolerance. When left untreated, iodine deficiency can lead to severe hypothyroidism. Complications may include:
• Heart disease and related disorders, such as an enlarged heart and heart failure
• Mental health issues such as depression and cognitive impairment
• Damage to the body’s peripheral nerves, known as peripheral neuropathy
• Impaired ovulation, which may cause infertility in women
• Pregnancy-related issues that iodine deficiency can cause include
miscarriages, stillbirth, preterm delivery, and congenital abnormalities in new-borns
How Much Iodine is Needed?
The amount of iodine you need every day depends on your age. Most adults should get 150 micrograms of iodine daily. If you are pregnant, or breastfeeding, you should take a prenatal vitamin that contains 250 micrograms of iodine daily. Not all prenatal vitamins contain iodine, so double-check the nutrients on the bottle.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
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