Iodine: What's a pregnant girl to do?

Every so often Iodine dominates the media headlines as one of the missing links of Human Nutrition. Most commonly it's effects on pregnancy is discussed and pregnant or pregnant-to-be mum's start to worry if they need it or are having enough? and where to get it from. 

A developing baby relies solely on the mother for its Iodine uptake, which is then used to manufacture a thyroid hormone T4 in the baby's neurological system. Studies have shown the important effects Iodine has on the healthy development of the brain and neurological system as the baby grows. Some studies into children born with Iodine deficiency have found those children to have a lower IQ than those with adequate Iodine. The results are conclusive and Iodine is paramount to the wellness of mother-to-be and baby.

I believe good nutrition comes from a balanced and nutrient dense diet. Though, sadly our diets today are mostly designed around convenience, fast, and pre-packaged foods. Our modern day farming practises have left our soils in a parched and nutrient deficient condition, rendering the produce low in essential minerals such as Iodine. Seafood and especially seaweed products (kelp, dulse or wakame) are great sources of Iodine, other sources include eggs, fresh saltwater fish such as salmon or bream, hard cheeses, strawberries or good quality yoghurt.

The recommended daily iodine intakes are:
90 micrograms (ug) for infants
90 to 150 ug for children
150 ug for adults, and
250 ug for pregnant and breastfeeding women

Most or all pregnant or breastfeeding women will benefit from some Iodine supplementation. It is suggested that it be considered as important a nutrient for a healthy pregnancy as Folic acid has become. Increase your healthy dietary sources of Iodine and check your multivitamin lists it in the ingredients.  Start taking it just prior to falling pregnant and continue to take or eat optimal levels of Iodine till the later stages of pregnancy when the baby is able to produce their own T4.

Please note: some people who suffer from an overactive Thyroid must use Iodine with caution. If in doubt see your Doctor or Health Care professional.