In America, about 1 out of every 8 women will develop breast cancer. Breast cancer is a serious epidemic and according to recent studies, Japan has a 66% lower breast cancer rate than America does. What nutrients are we missing out on?
Yes, it’s true, Japan has a lower rate of breast cancer than we do; Significantly lower actually! Japan has a 66% lower rate of breast cancer diagnoses. But why? Studies suggest it is due to the deficiency of iodine. The U.S. Dietary Reference Intake for iodine is 150 micrograms daily while in Japanese women are getting almost 25 times that.
It is known that the western diet is deficient in iodine. Most Americans get their iodine from salt, due to the push of government officials on salt manufacturers. However, women have begun avoiding salt due to the lack of iodine in their diet, which led to an increase in iodine deficiency rates. Lowered iodine levels can lead to an increase in the risk of breast cancer.
Studies show that mammograms might give off enough radiation to stimulate the growth of breast cancer. That is rather oxymoronic. Another factor which contributed to iodine deficiency is the increase in environmental toxins. They tend to attach to receptors in the cells meant for iodine, shutting them out and preventing the body from absorbing it.
The body is not able to produce Iodine on its own. Therefore, it is important that we remain consuming a diet that contains it. Although you can get iodine supplements, they might not be as beneficial as the labels claim to be. Instead of wasting money on expensive supplements, here are some natural foods that are iodine rich!
- Sea Veggies – The ocean hosts the largest storehouse of iodine foods, including Kelp, Arame, Hiziki, Kombu, and Wakame. Kelp has the highest amount of iodine of any food on the planet and just one serving offers 4 times the daily minimum requirement.
- Cranberries – This antioxidant rich fruit is another great source of iodine. About 4 ounces of cranberries contain approximately 400/mcg of iodine. I recommend buying fresh organic berries or juice. If you buy cranberry juice from the store, be aware of how much sugar it contains.
- Organic Yogurt – Yogurt is an excellent iodine food you should add to your diet. One serving holds more than half of your daily needs. 1 cup contains approximately 90/mcg of iodine.
- Navy Beans – Many beans are a great food source of iodine and navy beans may top the list. Just 1/2 cup of these beans contains about 32/mcg of iodine. Beans aren’t just an iodine food, they are also incredibly high in fiber.
Organic cheese – Cheese is high in iodine, along with essential B vitamins, calcium, and protein. One ounce of raw cheddar cheese contains around 10-15 mcg of iodine. [10] Goat’s milk cheese is easier on the digestive system and contains slightly higher levels of calcium and protein. Dairy, whether raw or pasteurized, may not be the best choice for some people, especially those with sensitive digestive systems or individuals adhering to a vegan and/or vegetarian diet.