Iodine
Iodine is vital and indispensable for the production of thyroid hormones. The thyroid hormones have a central function in controlling the metabolism and are necessary for normal growth, bone formation and the development of the nervous system, among other things. If too little of the element is taken in over a long period of time, it can lead to hypothyroidism. Symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain and an enlarged thyroid (goiter) can occur. An oversupply of iodine, on the other hand, can lead to hyperthyroidism in patients with Graves' disease or functional autonomy.
In brief:
Sea fish, milk and dairy products, iodized table salt and foods made with iodine.
The intake is below the estimated average requirement for about one third of adults and about 45 percent of children and adolescents in Germany.
The population as a whole and especially people who do not consume fish or dairy products. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should discuss the possibility of supplementation with their doctor.
In Germany, the iodine supply has improved since the mid-1980s. One major reason for this is the measure to enrich table salt with iodine. However, current data from the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) show that iodine intake is still not optimal. Almost 30 % of adults and 44 % of children and adolescents are at risk of insufficient iodine intake.
Fruit, vegetables and cereals are low in iodine because the soil in Germany contains little iodine. The element is only found in relevant quantities in a few foods. These include seafood, milk and foods processed with iodised salt. Those who consciously eat such foods and use iodised salt in the household are usually sufficiently supplied with iodine. However, pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers have a higher iodine requirement. After consulting their doctor, they should therefore take an additional 100-150 micrograms (µgshort formicrogram) of iodine per day as a supplement.
Together, these foods provide either 68 µg (bread without iodised salt) or 103 µg (bread with iodised salt) of iodine. This corresponds to either around 36 % or already around 55 % of the recommended intake for adults (between 180 and 200 µg/day depending on age).
Proposed maximum level for the addition of iodine to food supplements (per daily dose)
In order to provide consumers with significant additional nutrient intake via food supplements when needed and at the same time to protect well-supplied people from excessive intake, the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfRshort forGerman Federal Institute for Risk Assessment) recommends adding no more than 100 µgshort formicrogram of iodine per daily dose to a food supplement. For the group of pregnant and breastfeeding women, a maximum value of 150 µgshort formicrogram iodine per daily consumption recommendation of a food supplement is suggested.
Frequently asked questions
FAQ with detailled information on iodine and other substances.
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