Final answer:
Beyond iodized salt, seafood like marine fish and shrimp, and seaweed like kelp, are excellent sources of iodine. Varied diets that include these foods can help reduce the risk of iodine deficiency, which is still a concern for a significant portion of the world's population.
Step-by-step explanation:
Good Sources of Iodine
Besides iodized salt, which is a well-known source of iodine, there are other good sources of iodine that are important for maintaining a healthy diet. Seafood like marine fish and shrimp are high in iodine since they concentrate the mineral from seawater. Seaweed, such as kelp, is also known to contain large amounts of iodide ion, which makes it an excellent source of dietary iodine. For individuals in landlocked regions where seafood is less accessible, iodine can also be found in other foods like dairy products, eggs, and vegetables, depending on the iodine content of the soil they were grown in.
Iodine is essential for the synthesis of thyroid hormones, and deficiency can lead to disorders such as hypothyroidism, goiter, and cognitive impairments. With the addition of iodized salt to diets, iodine deficiency has been greatly reduced, particularly in the United States. However, up to 40% of the world's population may still be at risk. Ensuring a varied diet with adequate sources of iodine is crucial for global health.