Better Health Channel
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
  • Iodine is needed to make essential thyroid hormones. These are used by the body for growth and energy use, as well as brain and bone development during pregnancy and early childhood.
  • Not enough iodine in the diet can cause serious problems including stunted growth in young children and an enlarged thyroid gland (goitre) in adults.
  • Good sources of iodine include bread made with iodised salt and any type of seafood, including seaweed.
  • In Australia all bought breads (except organic bread) have iodised salt.
  • Women who are planning to get pregnant, are pregnant or breastfeeding need extra iodine and should see their doctor for advice about their individual health needs. 

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Content on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website.

Reviewed on: 02-05-2024