When trying for a baby, it’s important to make sure that a woman’s body is capable of providing the baby with all the necessary nutrients. Iodine being one of them, is crucial for the brain development in a baby. For this reason pregnant women should ensure they have sufficient iodine levels.

Iodine is a chemical for thyroid hormones found in iodized salt, seafood, dairy products, and some vegetables and fruits. It is mostly used by the body to regulate metabolism and bone growth and brain development in children. It has been proven that asevere iodine deficiency can cause developmental and intellectual delays in infants.

Moreover, women with an iodine deficiency have lower chances of conceiving, as thyroid hormones regulate ovulation, metabolism and weight, all of which are essential in improving your chances of achieving a natural pregnancy. 

The daily recommended intake of iodine is 150 mcg, so it’s important for women to meet this requirement when planning a pregnancy. The World Health Organisation recommends 250 mcg/day during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. 

Sources:

Iodine deficiency may reduce pregnancy chances, NIH study suggests, nih.gov

Why is iodine important to preconception and pregnancy health?, blog.ivf.com.au

Iodine in pregnancy and lactation, ukiodine.org