Iodine-rich foods for thyroid health

Thyroid hormones are crucial for maintaining healthy organ function and metabolism at all ages. In babies and children, adequate levels of thyroid hormone are vital for physical growth and brain development. Insufficient thyroid hormone during pregnancy and early childhood can lead to mental retardation and stunted physical growth.

In adults, low thyroid hormone levels can cause lethargy, weight gain, organ dysfunction, and menstrual irregularities. Conversely, excessive thyroid hormone levels may result in an elevated metabolic rate, weight loss, heart problems, diarrhoea, tremors, mood swings, and sleep disturbances.

Common food sources of iodine

Iodine is a critical element required by the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones. Both iodine deficiency and excess can interfere with hormone production. Common dietary sources of iodine include:

• Eggs
• Dairy products
• Seafood (such as fish and seaweed)

Iodine is also often added to table salt and bread dough, so it’s worth checking the ingredient list on your preferred brands.

Recommended festive dishes for thyroid health

Consider incorporating these iodine-rich festive dishes into your Chinese New Year celebrations:

1. Steamed Fish: A traditional dish often served whole as a symbol of prosperity during Chinese New Year. Fish is a great source of iodine and can be complemented with ginger, garlic, and soy sauce for added flavour.
   
   
2. Braised Abalone: This luxurious dish, a staple of festive feasts, features abalone, clams, and other shellfish, all excellent sources of iodine that support thyroid health.

Enjoy standard servings—approximately palm-sized portions—of these foods. Your thyroid gland will thank you!

Long-term thyroid health

For long-term thyroid health, incorporate a variety of iodine-rich foods such as seafood, dairy, and eggs into your diet throughout the year. Given Singapore’s diverse culinary scene, there is no shortage of tasty options to meet your nutritional needs.

If you have any concerns about your thyroid health, schedule a consultation with our Gastrointestinal Surgeon, Dr Shanker Pasupathy, today.

Book an appointment:
Call us: 6322 6333
WhatsApp us: 9655 2101

1. British Thyroid Foundation. Iodine and Thyroid [Online]. 2023. (Accessed 4 January 2025).
2. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. Iodine: Fact Sheet for Consumers [Online]. 2023. (Accessed 4 January 2025).
3. British Dietetic Association. Iodine [Online]. 2023. (Accessed 4 January 2025).