Iodine is an important nutrient, essential in the synthesis of thyroid hormones. A deficiency in iodine can lead to hypothyroidism long term; for those with an underactive thyroid, it may be worth assessing if you are receiving enough iodine in your diet.

Hypothyroidism symptoms are:

• Dry skin
• Hair loss
• Fatigue
• Slow reflexes

Checking your thyroid levels may be something your GP does to check for possible causes of fatigue. It is easy to check as it is a simple blood test, if your thyroid is found to be underactive your GP will likely continue to monitor it and may eventually commence you on thyroid medication.

The finding that your thyroid is underactive may not lead your GP to immediately assume that you are not getting enough iodine in your diet, but increasing iodine intake is a simple intervention that can be undertaken without medical assistance and is worth correcting on the possibility it may be the cause.

Iodine levels in Australian soils are not optimal, and as such vegetables are not a good source of iodine. The best source available is iodised salt, which is readily available in supermarkets. Please be aware that it cannot be assumed that the salt added to manufactured food is sufficient to meet iodine needs, as it is not mandatory to use iodised salt in manufactured foods in Australia. It is however mandatory to use iodised salt in bread in Australia, with the exception of organic breads.

Seafood including fish and seaweed are rich sources as iodine is found in seawater, please note however that sea salt is not considered a good source of iodine. Two serves of fish per week is considered sufficient to provide enough iodine to prevent an underactive thyroid (requirements during pregnancy are much higher and supplements may be necessary during pregnancy).

Dairy and eggs are also a source of iodine, but are unlikely to meet needs if this was the only dietary source. Vegetarians may need to supplement, however it is possible to meet needs without eating fish by consuming enough iodised salt, bread and seaweed.

Reference:

Iodine explained: Better Health Channel