Vegetarians avoid meat and fish in their diet. But the water dwellers in particular are great suppliers of iodine. So that there is no iodine deficiency, vegetarians can incorporate algae into their diet, because they score with a high content of the trace element.
Algae as an iodine supplier
100 grams of seaweed contain about 10 milligrams of iodine. They are therefore ideally suited for vegetarians who have to cover their need for the trace element with other sources than, for example, fish. However, the iodine content varies in different types of algae.
For example, nori seaweed, which is best known as the coating of sushi rolls, contains the least iodine – but it does have a lot of vitamin A. Kombu seaweed, on the other hand, is very rich in iodine and contains natural glutamic acids, which make all dishes taste more intense.
Be careful with iodine intake
In order to avoid a disturbance of thyroid function, excessive iodine intake should not occur. This is especially true for children, the elderly, or people who are affected by thyroid disease. If you suspect an iodine deficiency, you should always consult a doctor and not supplement yourself.
