Iodine during pregnancy – why is it important and foods rich in Iodine
Iodine is a trace element found in seafood, dairy products and a few other sources of foods in very small amounts. It is an essential nutrient that is required to make the maternal and fetal thyroid hormones that regulate brain development in the fetus. Women’s iodine requirement increases during pregnancy to supply for the developing brain of the fetus. Pregnancy iodine deficiency is associated with weight gain in mothers and a range of cognitive and physical disabilities in infants.
Role of iodine in pregnancy
Iodine is a critical element in the production of thyroid hormones, which affect the way the body works and controls processes such as metabolism and heart rate. Having low levels of iodine is associated with fatigue, mood swings and weight gain. Iodine during pregnancy is essential for the development of the brain cells in the fetus. Healthy growth of the brain tissue in the fetus is important to develop motor skills and build the foundations for further neurological processes.
How much Iodine do pregnant women need?
The requirement of iodine is determined by age. While adults need 150 micrograms (mcg) of the element per day, pregnant women need 220 mcg/day, and breastfeeding mothers need 290 mcg/day.
What happens if there is an iodine deficiency?
Low levels of iodine in the body lead to low thyroid hormone levels, which in turn is responsible for the poor development of the baby. It could also increase the risk of preterm birth. A deficiency in the pregnancy iodine intake during breastfeeding can have effects on the cognitive functioning of the child. Severe deficiency of iodine can be harmful to the development of the brain and nervous system and cause intellectual disability, stunted growth and delayed sexual development. Even mild iodine deficiency can cause problems with neurological development. Children who have grown up in iodine-deficient areas perform better on reasoning abilities and show improved cognitive function when given iodine supplements.
Can iodine be harmful?
When taken in excess quantities, the body presents with the same symptoms as iodine deficiency. It can lead to thyroid gland inflammation in the mother (goitre).
Foods rich in iodine
Most people who eat meat and seafood get enough iodine from natural foods. Vegetarians and vegans need to rely on iodized salt to get their recommended daily intake of the nutrient. Since pregnant women need 50% more iodine than non-pregnant women, they will have to manage the rest through diet or supplements. Here are some of the iodine-rich foods:
- Seafood such as fish and shrimp
- Potatoes and potato skins
- Poultry meats
- Eggs
- Iodized salt
- Dairy products such as milk, curd and cheese
- Seaweed (potent source)
Conclusion
Iodine is a critical trace element that is involved in the production of the thyroid hormone that regulates the body’s functions. Deficiency of iodine during pregnancy can lead to preterm birth, stunted growth and intellectual disability.
References:
https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iodine-Consumer/
https://mothertobaby.org/fact-sheets/iodine-pregnancy/
https://www.who.int/elena/titles/bbc/iodine_pregnancy/en/
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