Iodine in pregnancy

So what do we know about Iodine during pregnancy?

To begin, Iodine in general is needed for thyroid function. The thyroid is a very important part of the endocrine system and has a key role in hormonal function. That being said, Iodine is also important during a woman's pregnancy for not only the mother but the baby.

Why should we make sure mothers have a healthy intake of Iodine?

In worst case scenarios--- Iodine deficiencies have been associated with miscarriage, stillbirth, preterm delivery, mental disabilities, stunted growth, and difficulties with hearing and speech. In the rarest of cases cretinism is developed. This is defined as a severe case of Iodine deficiency causing both stunted physical and mental growth.

How much Iodine should pregnant women consume daily?

According to current recommendations, pregnant mothers should consume 220 mcg of Iodine per day. Lactating (breastfeeding) women should consume approximately 290 mcg of Iodine per day.

Where do we find Iodine?

Iodine should be in your prenatal vitamin (check now while you're thinking about it!) and of course ---FOOD! The most common foods that contain Iodine include, but are not limited to; dairy products, seaweed, shellfish, fish, meats, eggs, and fortified iodized salt.

How can Mamas Maternal Health help?

At Mamas Maternal Health---we emphasize a food first (find Mikayla at @food_first_rd on Instagram!) approach and will help you find ways to incorporate Iodine as well as other essential nutrients into you diet to optimize your nutrition during pregnancy. Pre-natal vitamins are a wonderful way to ensure vitamin and mineral intake during pregnancy--- but a balanced diet is considerably more delicious. To join us, click here today!

Cassie and Mikayla

Mamas Maternal Health Dietitians/Lactation Counselors

Reference: https://health.mo.gov/living/families/wic/pdf/3-0MaternalNutrition.pdf

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