Why women need iodine
The Importance of Iodine During Pregnancy
Why women need iodine: More than 4 in 10 people who are pregnant or may become pregnant may not get enough iodine—a mineral that plays a vital role in healthy brain development for babies. You can find iodine in marine (not freshwater) seafood, seaweed, iodised salt, bread, and even ice cream. In Canada, bakeries add iodine to all bread, except for organic varieties.
Concerning Findings on Iodine Deficiency
Dr. Jenny Gunton, the lead researcher, highlights why these findings matter. She explains that people who are pregnant or planning pregnancy should make sure to include enough iodine in their diets. Since iodine supports overall growth and is especially important for forming healthy brains in babies, getting enough is crucial.
Globally, experts recognize iodine deficiency as the leading preventable cause of mental delays. Furthermore, it can also contribute to miscarriage and stillbirth.
Understanding Iodine Levels and Recommendations
Why women need iodine
Experts measure iodine levels in micrograms per litre (ug/L). In this study, the researchers analysed how much iodine the participants had in their urine. The median iodine level for participants reached only 117ug/L, which falls well below the National Health and Medical Research Council’s recommendation of 250ug/L for people who are pregnant or lactating.
Getting enough iodine even before conception is important, because a baby’s brain starts developing before you may even know you are pregnant. Therefore, Dr. Gunton encourages people who are planning a pregnancy to begin taking a pregnancy multivitamin with iodine before trying to conceive.
Good Food Sources of Iodine
Why women need iodine
To boost iodine intake, include these foods in your diet:
- Oysters
- Tinned salmon
- Bread (made with iodized salt)
- Steamed snapper
- Cheddar cheese
- Eggs
- Ice cream
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