In this article:
At the same time, our adult bodies require only the least amount of it (5 grams over a 70-year lifetime!).
Why Is Iodine Necessary During Pregnancy?
Iodine contributes to the correct function of the thyroid gland, which is located at the base of your neck. The thyroid gland governs the hormones that control metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, and other essential bodily activities.Getting adequate iodine ensures that your baby has a healthy and normal thyroid. In extremely rare situations, a foetus with an undeveloped thyroid might have long-term consequences such as developmental delays, deafness, reduced growth, cognitive deficits, and other issues.
Iodine is particularly important in lactation since you pass it on to your kid through your breast milk. That is, the iodine you take during pregnancy continues to benefit your baby's brain and thyroid development until they stop breastfeeding and completely shift to solids.
How Much Iodine Does A Pregnant Woman Need?
Because iodine is so important for foetal health, the Dr Praneta Swarup, Department of Pediatric, Sharda Hospital, recommends that women consume more of it than usual during pregnancy and even more when breastfeeding, specifically 150 microgrammes (mcg) per day before pregnancy, 220 mcg during pregnancy, and 290 mcg while breastfeeding.Your may provide enough iodine, but this is dependent on the sort of supplement you take.
Pregnant and lactating women should take a daily multivitamin or prenatal supplement with 150 mcg of iodine. This is credible advice, but make sure to consult your doctor before using any supplement. You do not want to overdo it.
Which Foods Are Rich In Iodine?
Aside from ensuring whether your prenatal vitamin contains iodine, the best approach to guarantee you're getting enough is to maintain a nutritious pregnancy diet. Focus on whole meals that are naturally sourced, including the following:- Baked cod (99 mcg per 85 grammes)
- Plain, low-fat yoghurt (75 mcg in one cup)
- Low-fat milk (56 mcg in one cup)
- Fish sticks (54 mcg per 0.08 lt.)
- Enriched bread (45 mcg per two pieces)
- Shrimp (35 mcg per 0.08 lt.)
- Enriched macaroni (27 microgrammes per 1 cup cooked)
- Large egg (24 microgrammes)
- Canned light tuna (17 mg per 0.08 lt.)
- Creamed corn (14 mcg per 1/2 cup)
- Cheddar cheese (12 mcg in 28 grammes)
- Dried prunes (13 mcg/five)
- Raisin bran cereal (11mcg per cup)
- Apple juice (7 mcg in one cup)
Iodine levels in seaweed can range from 16 to 2,984 mcg per 28-gram serving. As long as you are not allergic, it is probably okay to eat seaweed on occasion.
What Foods Are Low In Iodine?
While they can be included in a healthy pregnancy diet, keep in mind that the following foods are low in iodine:- Fruits and vegetables
- Fresh meat
- Egg whites
- Rice, couscous, oats and saltless crackers and spaghetti
- Baked foods without iodised salt.
- Unseasoned nuts and nut butters, jam, and honey
- Fresh herbs and spices
Nitrates are chemicals employed as preservatives in a variety of foods, including deli meats and processed meals such as hot dogs, sausages, and bacon. Not all nitrates are bad, but some can be dangerous. Look for the term "nitrate-free" on the label.
Can You Take Too Much Iodine?
The experts recommend that you consume no more than 1,100 mcg of iodine each day. Exceeding that amount may increase your risk of hypothyroidism and other serious complications.While taking a prenatal vitamin with 150 mcg of iodine is acceptable, most doctors do not recommend taking a separate iodine supplement, which typically begins at 500 mcg. Consult your doctor to ensure you're receiving enough iodine during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Are You Getting The Proper Quantity Of Iodine?
If you're concerned about your iodine levels, consult your doctor or a nutritionist, who can offer advice on diet and prenatal vitamins. It is doubtful that a urine test (the only technique to determine iodine levels, which are rarely tested by practitioners) will be required.When iodine levels are insufficient or deficient, symptoms may include an enlarged thyroid (goitre) or nodules at the base of the neck. Hypothyroidism is another cause for concern, particularly if you experience chills, muscle weakness, exhaustion, pale complexion, puffiness, joint or muscle discomfort, or constipation.
Fortunately, iodine is easily incorporated into meals and snacks. Focusing on healthy foods, cooking with iodised salt, and taking your prenatal vitamins as instructed should provide you with all of the iodine you and your baby require.
FAQs on Iodine During Pregnancy: Are You Getting Enough?
- How to obtain enough iodine during pregnancy?
If you are pregnant or want to get pregnant, you can take a daily prenatal vitamin with at least 150 mcg of iodine. Check the label on your prenatal vitamins, as some may not contain iodine. Potassium iodide is the primary iodine source in prenatal supplements. - How much iodine should you take when trying to conceive?
Women who are contemplating a pregnancy, pregnant, or breastfeeding should take a daily supplement containing 150 microgrammes of iodine.
