Tuesday, November 23, 2004

Seaweeds are usually considered high in iodine content

Seaweeds are usually considered high in iodine content, and can cause problems for thyroid patients. However there are many types of seaweed. Korea, and Japan have over 60 species of seaweed. Food preparation can effect iodine content of seaweed. Nori the flat sheets used for sushi has a small amount of iodine, compared to Miso soup. Kelp flavored stock is used to make miso soup. The soup then has over 1000 mcgs of iodine! The cooking in water releases the iodine into the broth.This level of iodine can cause progression of thyroid disease in susceptable thyroid patients. All seaweeds are not equal in causing problems. Ground kelp has 8000 mcg/gram, Kelp 2500, Dulse 72, and Nori has 16. Young seaweed, and floating seaweed have higher iodine than sundried seaweed.Review the article by Braverman before you decide what type of seaweed you should eat. Thyroid vol.14 number 10 2004, page 836-841.

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