Iodine is a mineral needed in the body to make thyroid hormones. Hormones control the body's metabolism, contributes to proper bone and brain development during pregnancy and infancy, and many other important functions. Getting enough iodine is important for everyone, especially infants and women who are pregnant. Iodine deficiency is uncommon in the United States and Canada.

Sources

Plant: Some fruits and vegetables contain iodine; however, the amount depends on the iodine in the soil and in any fertilizer that was used. Products made from grains (like bread and cereals) are major sources of iodine in American diets. Iodine is also found in seaweed especially laminaria kelp.

Animal: Dairy products, such as milk, yogurt, and cheese, along with fish, such as cod and tuna, seaweed, shrimp, and other seafood are generally rich in iodine.

NOTE: Iodine is added to salt that is labeled as "iodized". However, processed foods, such as canned soups, almost never contain iodized salt.

« Iodine supplements can interact or interfere with medicines including anti-thyroid medications such as methimazole (Tapazole®), which is used to treat hyperthyroidism, and ACE inhibitors used to control high blood pressure.