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Iodine deficiency during pregnancy and early infancy can result in cretinism (irreversible mental retardation and severe motor impairments). In the US, iodised salt is widely used and some other foods are fortified with iodine. In Canada all table salt is iodised. The UK has no iodine fortification strategy for plant foods or salt. Some otherwise healthful foods contain goitrogens - substances which can interfere with iodine uptake or hormone release from the thyroid gland.
These foods are generally only a concern if iodine intake is low. Soybeans, raw flaxseed, cassava (used in tapioca), sweet potatoes, lima beans, maize and millet also increase the requirements for iodine. Some individuals deliberately take kelp to try to lose weight by over stimulating the thyroid. This is a dangerous practice.
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