Iodine: the clever mineral
October 25, 2005
When we think of iodine, we think of that fluorescent yellow liquid that was
painted viciously on our cuts and grazes as kids. But according to recent
studies, this mineral has a far more important role in our health,
particularly for pregnant women and their developing babies brains.
Iodine is essential for a healthy thyroid which produces the thyroid hormone
or brain juice for developing babies and children.
A prolonged lack of iodine in your diet may lead to a condition known as
Iodine Deficiency Disorder or IDD. This deficiency is the single most
important cause of preventable intellectual deficit in the world.
Preventable intellectual deficit refers to conditions such as goitre,
cretinism and mental retardation.
It is important to ensure adequate iodine intake during pregnancy, as this
is the time when the brain does the most developing. Iodine deficiency,
particularly in children, may lead to lower intelligence levels and learning
disorders. It has also been noted that an iodine deficiency can mean
development problems for the baby and may even lead to miscarriage.
The recommended daily intake for pregnant women is 120 150 micrograms with
a maximum of 1.1 milligrams per day.
Sydney endocrinologist, Professor Creswell Eastman coordinated a study which
measured iodine levels in eight-to-ten year old children. The results were
expected to trigger the mandatory addition of iodine to salt. This move has
already been agreed to, in principle, by state health ministers.
Its going to be years before mandatory fortification takes place, and in
the meantime it would be intolerable, almost criminal, to let [pregnant]
women be at risk of iodine deficiency, Professor Eastman said.
Where to find rich sources of iodine:
Seafood fish, mussels.
Vegetables in particular, beets, celery, lettuce, mushrooms.
Fruits grapes, oranges in particular
So, if youre lucky enough to be pregnant, reach for a salad sandwich
instead of that second helping of cake and your baby will thank you for it
when theyre graduating with their masters degree.
REFERENCES
First National Iodine Study Western Sydney Area Health Services Media
Release 20.09.03
Hetzel BS. Iodine deficiency disorders and their eradication. Lancet 1983;
2: 1226-1229.
First National Iodine Study Western Sydney Area Health Services Media
Release 20.09.03
Iodine - http://www.birth.com.au/class.asp?class=6510&page=15
Rouse Rada Extra Iodine Recommended in Pregnancy Medical Observer
September 2005 :
Rich Sources of Nutrients -
http://www.gmhc.org/health/nutrition/factsheets/nutrients.html
Leanne Wynne
Midwife in charge of "Women's Business"
Mildura Aboriginal Health Service Mob 0418 371862
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