Iodine is a vital mineral that the thyroid gland uses to produce thyroid hormones, which regulate numerous functions in the body including growth and development. Because your body does not generate iodine, you must obtain it from your diet. The body cannot manufacture enough thyroid hormones if iodine levels are low.
Iodine deficiency in pregnancy has been identified as the major cause of preventable brain damage in neonates and infants due to inadequate intake by mothers and infants and has thus become a global public health concern. International efforts, primarily through the use of iodized salt and supplements, are being made to assist alleviate the situation. Iodine deficiency is a critical component for healthy brain development, as it is the main cause of intellectual disability worldwide. The most serious consequences are on brain development in fetuses and infants, when a deficiency can result in irreparable brain damage that lasts a lifetime. Additional risks include brain injury, cretinism, intellectual impairment, and other diseases.
Thyroid hormones influence growth in the growing brain during pregnancy, infancy, and childhood, making it a critical vitamin throughout life. Iodine deficiency in children manifests as a lower-than-average IQ, as well as reduced brain function in adults. Iodine deficiency in children is often associated with goiter and has also been linked to decreased intellectual and motor performance, as well as an increased risk of ADHD. WHO recommends that adults consume less than 5 grams (just under a teaspoon) of iodized salt per day. The recommended daily intakes (RDI) for iodine are the following:
6 months to 6 years old-90 micrograms per day
7 years old to 12 years old-120 micrograms per day
Teenagers to adults-150 micrograms per day
Pregnant and Lactating women-200 micrograms per day
Natural sources of dietary iodine include seaweed, saltwater fish, and seafood. Iodine is also found in dairy products in variable amounts. Breastmilk also tends to be a good supply of iodine as long as the mother's iodine consumption is adequate.
Some experts are concerned that iodine deficiency may be on the rise again as a result of the trend of consuming less table salt, dairy, and bread. A healthy, well-balanced diet rich in iodine-rich foods and iodized salt is essential for optimal health. Iodine-fortified prenatal supplements can help pregnant and breastfeeding mothers meet their nutritional needs.
References:
https://www.eatright.org/food/vitamins-and-supplements/types-of-vitamins-and-nutrients/iodine-a-critically-important-nutrient
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/iodine-rich-foods#
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/salt-reduction
National Salt Iodization Program
(By: NO II Aurel/NOIII Flroes/RNPC)
