Which food sources are rich in iodine?

Iodine is an essential nutrient that plays a critical role in the synthesis of thyroid hormones, which regulate various metabolic processes in the body. Among various food sources, salt and seafood are particularly rich in iodine.

Salt, especially when iodized, is a common dietary source of iodine, as it is a widely consumed seasoning worldwide. On the other hand, seafood, such as fish and shellfish, contains high levels of iodine due to the mineral being abundant in ocean water. These food items provide a direct source of iodine that can help prevent deficiencies that might lead to health issues such as goiter or thyroid dysfunction.

In contrast to the other options, while dairy products can provide some iodine and certain grains may have trace amounts depending on the soil in which they were grown, they are not as reliable or concentrated sources of iodine as iodized salt and seafood. Thus, the inclusion of these food sources is crucial for meeting the recommended daily intake of iodine.