Jodiumrijke

Jodiumrijke, a Dutch adjective meaning “rich in iodine”, is used to describe foods, supplements, or other substances that contain high levels of this essential trace mineral. Iodine is a key component of the thyroid hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which regulate metabolism, growth, and development. A diet that is jodiumrijk helps maintain healthy thyroid function and prevents disorders such as hypothyroidism, goiter, and iodine deficiency syndrome.

Common jodiumrijke foods include seaweed (kelp, nori), iodized salt, dairy products, eggs, and certain fish such as cod and shrimp. Many countries fortify table salt with iodine, making iodized salt the most widely consumed source in Western diets. In regions with low natural iodine availability, public health programs often recommend iodine supplements or substituting jodiumrijke foods into meals.

The recommended daily intake of iodine varies by age and life stage. For adults, the European Food Safety Authority sets the reference intake at 140 micrograms per day, while pregnant and lactating women need about 250 to 250 micrograms. Excessive iodine intake can lead to thyroid dysfunction; therefore, individuals on amiodarone or with autoimmune thyroid disease should monitor consumption of jodiumrijke items.

In nutrition labeling within the European Union, the term “jodiumrijk” is explicitly defined and regulated. Food producers must disclose iodine content, allowing consumers to identify jodiumrijke products readily. This labeling helps people with thyroid conditions and those seeking to meet iodine requirements make informed dietary choices.