Vitamin Spotlight: Iodine
March 30, 2016
Iodine is most commonly associated with thyroid function. But the benefits and relationship of iodine to the body go beyond the thyroid. Iodine is so critical to the functioning of the body that manufacturers add it to foods to increase consumption of this mineral.
What are the Benefits of Iodine?
Iodine is a micronutrient that is required by our bodies for normal thyroid function. The thyroid needs iodine to produce hormones that regulate metabolism and other processes, including protein synthesis. Iodine is also necessary for proper bone and brain development of both babies in utero and infants.1 In addition, iodine appears to play a role in immune response.1 Because of the role iodine plays in fetal development, it’s important for women who are pregnant to get the recommended amount of iodine each day.
How Much Iodine Do You Need?
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends that pregnant or lactating women consume 150 mcg of iodine each day.2 These women require more iodine than the average adult because of their increased thyroid-hormone production, renal losses and the iodine requirements of their growing babies.3
Which Foods Contain Iodine?
Our bodies do not naturally produce iodine, so people must consume iodine from food sources or supplements. Dairy products, seafood and some bread contain iodine. Potatoes, shrimp and cod are all good natural sources of iodine. However, many people add iodine to their diets just by salting their food. Since 1924, iodine has been added to salt, particularly table salt (not all sea salts contain added iodine). Iodine was originally added to help reduce goiter, a condition where the thyroid gland becomes enlarged.
Prenatal Vitamins with Iodine
Iodine used to be very prevalent in the average American’s diet. However, recent dietary trends (like vegan or vegetarian diets) and the removal of iodized salts from breads and other foods have made it harder for women to consume the recommended daily amount of iodine. The Prenate® Vitamin Family can help fill gaps in nutrition, and offers nutritional support for mothers and their babies for every step of pregnancy and after delivery. Ask your doctor if the Prenate® Vitamin Family is right for you. For your convenience we’ve provided links to the prenatal vitamins with iodine that the Prenate® Vitamin Family offers: