Iodine is a trace mineral used by your body to manufacture thyroid hormones, which are needed to signal the body to perform a number of functions. While your body needs iodine, it is possible to be allergic to this mineral. Having an iodine allergy means your body views iodine as a foreign substance and causes an inflammatory reaction that results in symptoms such as difficulty breathing, a skin rash or runny eyes. Your physician may recommend eating a diet low in iodine if you have an iodine allergy.
Foods Containing Sodium
To reduce the likelihood of iodine deficiencies, iodine was added to salt. These salt types are labeled as "iodized salt" and typically have 77 mcg of iodine per 1 g serving. In avoiding iodine in your daily diet, you may need to avoid foods that contain added salt. Restaurant, fast foods, frozen and canned foods tend to be high in iodized salt and should not be eaten. Your physician likely will advise you to make your meals at home to avoid the chances that iodized salt will be added. You can swap iodized salt for choices such as kosher salt, which typically does not have iodine added.
Seafood
Iodine is naturally present in seawater, which means shellfish and seafood tend to be higher in iodine content. Examples of seafood products that contain iodine include cod, which contains 99 mcg per 3 oz. serving. Other high-iodine seafood sources include shrimp, fish sticks and tuna. Seaweed also contains iodine in high amounts -- about 1/4 oz. of seaweed can contain as much as 4.5 mg of iodine.
Additional Food Sources to Avoid
Dairy products are another food source of iodine in your daily diet. Foods such as milk, cheese, ice cream and dairy creamers all can be high in iodine. Egg yolks and egg whites also can contain iodine. However, egg whites typically contain no or trace amounts of iodine. Also, commercial bakery products tend to be high in iodine because bakeries use dough conditioners that contain iodine. This can include breads, cakes, pies and sweet breads such as pumpkin or cinnamon bread. Chocolate and molasses also can be high in iodine and should be avoided.
Foods to Eat
A diet for those with iodine allergies closely resembles an "eat clean" diet, which involves eating fresh fruits and vegetables. Unsalted nuts and nut butters are good sources of protein on an iodine allergy diet. Other low-iodine protein sources include fresh meats such as chicken, beef and meat with the exception of seafood sources. Grain and cereal products can be consumed in moderate amounts. Other foods, including sugar, jelly, honey, maple syrup and molasses without sulfur added also are low in iodine.
Member Comments