Essential Trace Minerals for Thyroid Health

 It is estimated that there are 20 Million people in the US that suffer from thyroid conditions, of which, 60% are actually unaware of their condition! Why do I mention Thyroid Health in a Seafood article? Seafood contains important fatty acids and minerals that contribute to a healthy thyroid. The most talked about nutrient being Iodine.

Iodine is an essential trace element (essential means that we must get it from food, since our body cannot make it; and a trace element is an element that is required in very small amounts). Iodine is strongly correlated with thyroid health because it is an essential component in the synthesis and release of the thyroid hormones T3 and T4. In the absence of enough iodine, our TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) can become too high, which can contribute to various health issues. We want just enough iodine in our diet - not too little but not too much. The great thing about seafood is that it is rich in iodine!

SCALLOPS: 135 mcg of iodine per 4 oz serving (90% of daily recommended intake)

COD: 132 mcg of iodine per 4 oz serving (88% of daily recommended intake)

SHRIMP: 46 mcg of iodine per 4 oz serving (31% of daily recommended intake)

To meet your goals for weekly iodine intake as well as health goals for omega 3 fatty acids, and other important nutrients, it is recommended that we eat 2-3 servings of seafood each week! So stock up on some Scallops, Cod, and Spot Prawns and set yourself up for a healthy 2021.