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We do not often discuss iodine with our diet mainly because we do not need very much of it. Like the trace minerals, a little go a long way. The most important issue we could have when we lack adequate iodine is thyroid dysfunction, also known as hypothyroidism, which is an underactive thyroid. This really is a pretty common problem, predominantly since many people basically aren't getting enough iodine in the diet. Therefore how much iodine do you want to keep a thyroid healthy? The US government suggested day-to-day allowance is 150 mcg. By comparison in Japan the daily dose with iodine averages 2000 to 3000 mcg. A few health professionals maintain that we should be more towards the Japanese model compared to the amounts suggested in the USA. It appears as if in years past we were more interested in getting sufficient iodine in the food intake, and in those times it was vital to use iodized salt. But regular table salt has problems of its own, so a little later we will talk about a much better alternative. There also is a great deal of evidence that supports that iodine is excellent for breast health for women. It is said that iodine may be a key cause for minimizing cancers of the breast, as it is great at killing breast cancer cells. Also fibrocystic breast disease can be handled by taking in adequate quantities of iodine. This will make it clear that females really need to have much more iodine in their diet programs, possibly twice as much as males. But returning to thyroid dysfunction, among the symptoms could include dry skin, irregularity, being unable to perspire, high cholesterol levels and gaining weight. All these of course are generally symptoms of various other maladies, but are a few of the items to consider if you suspect thyroid problems. Obtaining the adequate quantities of iodine within the normal diet could be difficult; however these are some food products to think about, especially if you prefer to steer clear of dietary supplements. 1. Sea salt. We mentioned earlier that table salt frequently is going to be fortified with iodine, and it will be marked on the label that way. Yet sea salt is really a more organic way to get enough iodine but also some other vital minerals. 2. Kelp. Perhaps the greatest natural origin of iodine will be kelp along with other sea vegetables. Working in a small portion of kelp into your diet each day provides enough iodine for your daily requirements. Considering that the Japanese eating habits are typically rich in kelp and other sea foods it's probably no wonder why they consume much more iodine. 3. Dairy products. Cow's milk in addition to yogurt can be excellent sources of iodine, given those cows have grazed on grass that has been grown in iodine rich-soil. This can be a challenge to establish as things stand currently. However as time goes along it's going to probably be mandatory to ingredients label the sourcing for these products, because it is clear that the quality of just how this cattle is fed is important to our overall health. 4. Fruits and vegetables grown within iodine-rich soil. As with livestock, if fruits and vegetables become sourced from mineral rich soil, obviously those nutrients will be passed along to us. Endorphins are an important regulator of pain, but also pleasure. Most people produce them through exercise, but certain foods, especially chocolate can produce a similar effect. Read more about it on our website. Jim O'Connell is a writer and health advocate now living in Chicago.
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iodine, iodine deficient, kelp,
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