What happens when pregnant mother’s diet even more Iodized salt?

Iodine is an essential mineral required for the production of thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism, brain development, and overall growth. For infants, iodine is particularly crucial because it supports brain development during the first few years of life. A deficiency can lead to intellectual disabilities, stunted growth, and hypothyroidism.

Factors That Can Lead to Iodine Deficiency in Infants

Even if you consume iodized salt, your baby might still experience an iodine shortage due to several factors:

1. Inadequate Iodine Intake During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

• If the mother’s iodine intake during pregnancy was insufficient, the baby might not have received enough iodine from the placenta.
• Breastfeeding mothers need sufficient iodine since breast milk is the primary source of iodine for newborns. If the mother does not consume enough iodine, the baby may not get an adequate amount.

2. Variability in Iodine Content in Salt

• Not all iodized salt contains the same level of iodine. Some salts lose iodine due to improper storage, humidity, or exposure to air.
• The amount of salt people consume varies, and if dietary salt intake is low, iodine intake might also be low.

3. Limited Dietary Sources of Iodine

• Iodized salt is not the only source of iodine. If your diet lacks other iodine-rich foods (like dairy, eggs, fish, and seaweed), your overall iodine intake may be insufficient.
• If your infant has started eating solid foods, their iodine intake depends on the iodine content of their diet.

4. Increased Iodine Needs in Infants

• Infants have a higher requirement for iodine relative to their body weight. If the iodine supply is not optimal, they may become deficient quickly.
• Premature babies may have greater iodine needs, making them more vulnerable to deficiency.

5. Goitrogens in Diet

• Some foods, such as cabbage, soy, and cruciferous vegetables, contain goitrogens, which can interfere with iodine absorption and thyroid function. If a mother consumes these foods excessively, it may impact iodine levels in breast milk.

How to Ensure Your Infant Gets Enough Iodine

To prevent iodine deficiency in infants, consider the following:
✅ Ensure adequate maternal iodine intake – Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers need about 250 mcg of iodine daily.
✅ Consume iodine-rich foods – Include seafood, dairy, eggs, and iodized salt in your diet.
✅ Check iodine levels in salt – Ensure that the salt you consume is properly iodized and stored well.
✅ Use iodine supplements if necessary – Consult a doctor about iodine supplements if you are at risk of deficiency.
✅ Monitor infant growth and development – Watch for signs of iodine deficiency, such as lethargy, poor growth, or developmental delays.

Conclusion

While consuming iodized salt helps, it may not always be enough to ensure adequate iodine intake, especially for infants. Mothers must have a well-balanced diet rich in iodine and, if needed, consult a healthcare provider to ensure their baby receives the required amount of iodine for optimal growth and brain development.