Iodine in a Vegan Diet

Iodine is a halogen, and an essential element for all life.  It is important for proper thyroid function, among other things. About 0.15mg per day are recommended for adult men and women.  Deficiency in iodine during infancy or early childhood can lead to mental retardation.

According to some studies, iodine may prevent and inhibit the growth of breast cancer.

Iodine can be obtained from the following sources:

• Plants grown in iodine-fortified soil
• Iodised table salt
• Asparagus
• Garlic
• Seaweed, such as kelp
• Spinach
• Soybeans
• Mushrooms

Injesting over 1.1mg (1100 micrograms) of iodine per day may be dangerous to your health.  While injestion through plants is generally safe, it is not recommended to seek iodine via supplements unless advised to do so by a doctor.