When symptoms of hypothyroidism include a goiter, iodine deficiency is a likely culprit, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. A goiter, which shows as swelling in the neck, stems from an enlarged thyroid gland. If your doctor suspects you aren't getting enough iodine, she may suggest an iodine supplement, or urge you to add foods that are rich in the mineral.
Consideration
Don't self-diagnose thyroid problems. Iodine deficiencies are rare in developed countries. Unless you are sure you don't get enough of the mineral, you may worsen thyroid problems or create new ones, rather than treat the condition. Teens and adults need 150 mcg of iodine in their daily diet. The majority of people in developed countries get enough of the mineral each day in the form of iodized salt. According to UMMC, goiters are rare in the United States because iodine deficiencies are rare. But if your doctor determines you have an iodine deficiency, adding iodine-rich foods to your diet may help.
Salt
Because salt is iodized, table salt is a good source of iodine. A gram of salt, which is about 1/4 teaspoon, provides 77 mcg of iodine. Too much salt, however, will give you an unhealthy amount of sodium. If you have high blood pressure, your doctor may advise against additional table salt in your diet.
Seaweed
The iodine levels of seaweed vary dramatically, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. Some reconstituted dry seaweeds contribute as much as 4,500 mcg iodine. Seaweed is also high in folate, calcium, iron and magnesium, and is a good source of vitamins E and K. Use fresh or reconstituted seaweed in salads or in Asian stir-fries. Some seaweed types, such as kelp, come in supplement form and are standardized to contain high amounts of iodine.
Cod
A 3-oz. serving of cod provides about 100 mcg of iodine. At 105 calories and less than 1 g fat, cod is also an excellent source of lean protein, B vitamins, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium and selenium.
Shrimp
A 3-oz. serving of shrimp provides about 35 mcg iodine, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. Like cod, shrimp is low in fat and calories. If you have to watch your cholesterol, however, ask your physician if you should avoid shrimp, which has more than half of your recommended allotment of dietary cholesterol per serving. Shrimp is high in iron, vitamin B-12, niacin, phosphorus and selenium.
Potato
A baked potato with its skin provides 60 mcg iodine. It's also high in dietary fiber, folate, vitamin C, vitamin B-6, iron, niacin, potassium and manganese. A medium potato contains 168 calories and 37 carbs.
Turkey Breast
You'll get 34 mcg iodine in every 3-oz. serving of turkey breast. Turkey is also a good source of B vitamins, iron, zinc, phosphorus and selenium. Remove the skin before eating to keep the calorie and fat content low.
Additional Foods
Other dietary sources cited by the Linus Pauling Institute for their high iodine content include navy beans, tuna canned in oil and eggs.
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