Researchers from the University of Surrey in the U.K. and the Hospital Riotinto in Spain observed the effects of maternal iodine deficiency in different stages of child development – during pregnancy, lactation, and the first two years of life. They observed that iodine deficiency could lead to cognitive consequences such as impaired speech development, learning, and reading skills. The negative cognitive outcomes caused by iodine deficiency also led to an increase in behavioral disorders. This was associated with abnormal serum thyroid concentrations during the early stages of pregnancy.
"Iodine is most critical in the early stages of development, as the fetal brain is extremely dependent on iodine supply and cannot be replaced by any other nutrient," explained study co-author Dr. Ines Velasco of the Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit of Hospital Riotinto. "So an adequate iodine intake in pregnancy is needed to achieve optimal fetal neurodevelopment."
Based on laboratory studies, iodine deficiency can lead to "irreversible disturbances in the cellular structure of the brain's cerebral cortex," according to researchers. These disturbances can result in abnormal migration of neurons and potentially interfere with cognitive development. (Related: Iodine May Be the Critical Mineral for Weight Loss, Energy and Beauty.)
Still, the finding that surprised researchers was that iodine deficiency is no longer limited to certain areas, such as those with impoverished conditions, or those with high-risk conditions like poverty and malnourishment. According to Velasco, this calls for another look at existing programs for iodine supplementation, given the re-emergence of iodine deficiency.
"It is important to elucidate the contribution of iodine deficiency to these emergent public health issues," she added.
She also pointed out that collaboration between stakeholders will be needed to address and eliminate the problem of iodine deficiency. In addition, approaches must be targeted to ensure adequate intake for high-risk population groups, such as pregnant women and children under the age of two.
"Iodine deficiency remains as a public health problem worldwide and also requires a serious commitment from health authorities to be eradicated," she concluded.
Getting your iodine fix
Iodine doesn't just benefit pregnant women and children: This trace element is a vital component of thyroid hormones that are responsible for many biochemical reactions in the body. Iodine also helps regulate metabolic activity, which is important for managing diabetes.
On average, adults need 150 ?g (micrograms) of iodine a day. Pregnant women require higher, at 220 ?g per day, while lactating mothers should get at least 290 ?g of iodine daily.
One of the best sources of iodine is seaweed, with one gram giving you up to 2,984 ?g of iodine per serving. Cod and plain yogurt are also good sources, with each giving you 66 and 50 percent of your daily value per serving. In addition, dairy products, especially milk, and grain products are the major sources of iodine in a standard American diet.
Looking for even more ways to naturally get iodine? Head over to Food.news to learn more.
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