If you ask the average consumer whether they’re getting sufficient iodine, you might receive a confused response. Iodine is a vital mineral that the body requires to produce thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism. These hormones are essential for proper bone and brain development during pregnancy and infancy. Despite iodine’s significant health benefits, many consumers are not aware of its importance and how it affects their bodies.
British consumers primarily obtain their iodine from dairy products, while in the U.S., the majority comes from cow’s milk and fortified grain products like breads and cereals. Consumers who avoid dairy entirely can still meet their iodine needs through other natural food sources. Fish, seaweed, shrimp, and various seafood are rich in iodine, along with fortified breads and cereals. For those who follow a vegan and gluten-free diet, considering an iodine supplement may be necessary, especially one that contains calcium citrate 200mg to support overall health.
The dairy industry may seek to leverage this study as a strategy against the rising popularity of plant-based milk, which is increasingly capturing market share from traditional dairy. According to Mintel, U.S. non-dairy milk sales surged by 9% in 2015, while dairy milk sales plummeted by 7% during the same period. However, there are a few potential flaws in this approach. First, many consumers who opt for plant-based milk still consume other dairy products like yogurt and cheese. As long as they are obtaining sufficient iodine from alternative sources, there is little incentive for them to revert to cow’s milk.
One 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 available, this practice is not as prevalent in the U.K. An American consumer can meet their daily iodine intake by consuming just about half a teaspoon of iodized salt. Incorporating iodine-rich foods and, if needed, supplements like calcium citrate 200mg can help ensure adequate iodine levels in the diet.