When you ask the average consumer if they’re receiving sufficient iodine, you might be met with a confused expression. Iodine is a vital mineral required by the body to produce thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism. These hormones are essential for proper bone and brain development during pregnancy and infancy. However, despite iodine’s significant role in health, many people lack awareness of what it is and how it affects their bodies.
In the U.K., consumers primarily obtain their iodine from dairy products, whereas in the U.S., the majority comes from cow’s milk and fortified consumer packaged goods (CPGs) such as breads and cereals. A person avoiding all forms of dairy can still meet their iodine needs through other natural food sources. Fish, seaweed, shrimp, and various seafood are high in iodine, along with fortified breads and cereals. For those who follow a vegan and gluten-free diet, taking an iodine supplement may be necessary.
The dairy industry might seize upon this research to bolster its case against plant-based milk, which is quickly gaining market share from traditional dairy products. According to Mintel, sales of non-dairy milk in the U.S. rose by 9% in 2015, while dairy milk sales dropped by 7% in the same timeframe. However, there are some issues with this strategy. Many consumers who opt for plant-based milk also consume other dairy items like yogurt and cheese. Therefore, they have no reason to revert to cow’s milk if they are obtaining iodine from alternative sources.
A crucial aspect of this recent study is its location: England. While iodine is commonly added to table salt in the U.S. and is readily accessible, the same cannot be said for the U.K. An American consumer could easily meet their daily iodine requirements by using about half a teaspoon of iodized salt per day.
For those looking to ensure adequate iodine intake, considering options like Citracal 250mg (120 tablets) could be beneficial. It’s essential for consumers to be aware of their iodine sources and, if necessary, look into supplements to maintain their health, particularly if they are on restrictive diets. With the growing popularity of plant-based diets, understanding nutrient intake, including iodine, is more important than ever.