Iodine supplementation

Background

Iodine is an essential nutrient for humans in small quantities. Iodine is used in the body to produce thyroid hormones. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, thyroid activity and therefore iodine requirements, are increased. Thyroid hormones are important for the regulation of growth and the healthy development of the nervous system, coordination, alertness, and the five senses of sight, hearing, smell, taste and touch. Sufficient maternal thyroid hormone is essential for the baby’s rapid brain growth which occurs in the first 1000 days of life.

Most people can obtain a good proportion of iodine through a healthy diet. Pregnant and breastfeeding women need more iodine than the average person. It is known that women in these groups have inadequate iodine levels. Since mandatory iodine fortification of bread commenced in Australia in 2009 there has been a reduction in iodine deficiency among pregnant women, however there still remains room for improvement (Australian Government, Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) (2016) ) Monitoring the health impacts of mandatory folic acid and iodine fortification.

Recommendations

It is recommended that women who are considering becoming pregnant, who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consume 150 micrograms per day through supplements as well as obtaining iodine from a healthy diet National Health and Medical Research Public Statement (2010) Iodine Supplementation for pregnancy and breastfeeding women.
Women with known thyroid conditions should seek advice from their medical practitioner before taking an iodine supplement Clinical Practice Guidelines: Pregnancy Care, 2018 Edition.
Most foods in Australia contain only small amounts of iodine. Seafood is an excellent source, but pregnant and breastfeeding women should limit themselves to two serves of cooked seafood per week to avoid the high levels of mercury that are present in some fish. Other sources of iodine in food include bread, eggs, dairy and iodised salt NSW Food Authority - Food safety in pregnancy.