Iodine is a trace mineral your body needs to function. The most important function of iodine in the body is the production of thyroid hormones. Your thyroid gland regulates how your body uses energy. Iodine deficiency is uncommon. Infants and pregnant or breastfeeding mothers have a higher requirement for iodine.
Iodine
Iodine is found in the highest quantities in food originating from the sea. This includes saltwater fish and sea vegetables such as seaweed and kelp. Iodine is also found in smaller quantities in soil. A small quantity is absorbed by some vegetables such as beans. Milk also contains iodine. To prevent iodine deficiency, sodium iodine is added to sodium chloride in table salt.
Thyroid hormones are produced using iodine. These hormones control how you use energy stores in your body. Iodine deficiency can contribute to hypothyroidism, a condition characterized by weight gain, poor healing and dysfunction throughout your body.
Adult Recommendations
According to the U.S. National Institutes of Health, males and females older than 14 years need 150 mcg of iodine per day to avoid deficiency. According to the Linus Pauling Institute, this amount of iodine can be found in 2,000 mg of table salt, three cups of cow's milk or one serving, approximately 3 oz., of saltwater fish.
Child Recommendations
Children between ages 1 and 14 require less iodine than infants or adults. Between ages 1 and 8, a child requires 90 mcg of iodine per day to remain healthy. Children between 9 and 14 require 120 mcg per day. Infants require higher levels of iodine, although they will easily obtain this from mother's milk, assuming the mother is not deficient. Infants require 110 mcg per day between birth and 6 months of age. Infants between 6 and 12 months require 130 mcg per day.
Pregnancy or Breastfeeding
Pregnant or breastfeeding mothers have a higher requirement for iodine as they must supply both themselves and their child. The Linus Pauling Institute recommends 220 mcg of iodine per day during pregnancy and 290 mcg per day during breastfeeding. This amount might vary depending on your health and the health of your child. Your health care provider can provide you with specific recommendations.
Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions might alter your need for dietary iodine, especially those involving the thyroid. If you have hypothyroidism, your doctor might recommend a higher iodine intake. Those with hyperthyroidism, a disease characterized by the thyroid causing your body to use too much energy, might benefit from lower iodine intakes. See your health care provider for specific recommendations based on your current health.
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