Iodine during pregnancy: necessary for the thyroid gland

Iodine during pregnancy: necessary for the thyroid gland

The effect of iodine on the thyroid gland of the mother and fetus

Pregnancy is a period of significant physiological changes in the body of a woman, requiring increased attention to nutrition and providing the necessary trace elements. One of the key trace elements playing a critical role in the healthy development of the fetus and maintaining the health of the mother is iodine. Iodine is an indispensable component of thyroid hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which regulate the metabolism, growth and development of the nervous system. During pregnancy, the need for iodine increases significantly, since it is necessary not only for the functioning of the thyroid gland of the mother, but also to ensure adequate synthesis of thyroid hormones in the fetus, whose own thyroid gland begins to function independently only from the 16-20 weeks of gestation. Until this moment, the fetus is completely dependent on maternal iodine for the synthesis of thyroid hormones necessary for the normal development of the brain and nervous system.

During pregnancy, iodine deficiency can lead to serious consequences for both the mother and the child. In a mother, iodine deficiency can provoke hypothyroidism – a condition characterized by insufficient production of thyroid hormones. This can be manifested by fatigue, weight gain, constipation, dry skin, a decrease in concentration of attention and other symptoms. In more severe cases, hypothyroidism can lead to complications of pregnancy, such as preeclampsia, premature birth and miscarriage.

For the fetus, iodine deficiency is especially dangerous, since thyroid hormones play a key role in the development of the brain and nervous system, especially in the first trimester of pregnancy. The disadvantage of iodine during this period can lead to irreversible disorders of the development of the nervous system, such as a decrease in intelligence, developmental delay, violation of motor skills, deafness and cretinism – a severe form of mental retardation, also characterized by physical ongoing. Even a moderate iodine deficiency can negatively affect the cognitive functions of the child, his performance in school and general development.

In this regard, providing adequate iodine consumption during pregnancy is the most important task. The recommended daily dose of iodine for pregnant women is 250 mcg. It is difficult to achieve this dose only due to nutrition, so doctors often recommend taking iodine -containing supplements.

Physiology of the thyroid gland and its role in pregnancy

The thyroid gland is a small gland located in the front of the neck, which plays a crucial role in the regulation of metabolism in the body. It synthesizes thyroxine hormones (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which affect all cells and organs of the body, regulating metabolic rate, heart rhythm, body temperature and other vital functions. For the synthesis of these thyroid hormones, iodine is necessary, which enters the body with food and water.

During pregnancy, the need for thyroid hormones increases by about 50%, which is associated with an increase in the volume of circulating blood, an increase in metabolic rate and the need to provide thyroid hormones with a growing fruit. In this regard, the thyroid gland of a pregnant woman should work more intensively to satisfy the increased needs.

In the first trimester of pregnancy, the fetus completely depends on the maternal thyroid hormones, since its own thyroid gland does not yet function. Mother transfers hormones T4 and T3 through the placenta of the fetus, where they play a key role in the development of the brain and nervous system. Thyroid hormones are involved in the process of myelinization of nerve fibers, the formation of synapses and differentiation of neurons.

After 16-20 weeks of pregnancy, the thyroid gland of the fetus begins to function independently, but it still needs iodine coming from the mother, to synthesize its own hormones. Thus, adequate iodine consumption by the mother is critical for the normal development of the thyroid gland and the nervous system of the fetus throughout pregnancy.

In addition, thyroid hormones play an important role in maintaining normal pregnancy. They affect the development of the placenta, regulate the level of chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) – the hormone necessary to maintain pregnancy, and participate in the regulation of blood pressure. The lack of thyroid hormones can lead to complications of pregnancy, such as preeclampsia, premature birth and miscarriage.

Diagnosis of iodine deficiency during pregnancy

Diagnosis of iodine deficiency during pregnancy includes an assessment of the anamnesis, physical examination and laboratory tests. The doctor can ask questions about nutrition, the presence of thyroid diseases in the history of iodine -containing drugs. During a physically examination, the doctor can pay attention to the signs of an increase in the thyroid gland (goiter).

The main method of diagnosing iodine deficiency is a laboratory examination of the level of thyroid hormones in the blood. The most important indicators are the level of thyroidropic hormone (TSH) and free thyroxine (St. T4). TSH is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that regulates the function of the thyroid gland. With a lack of thyroid hormones, the TSH level increases to stimulate the thyroid gland to the production of more hormones. Free thyroxine (St. T4) is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland, which is the main indicator of its function.

During pregnancy, normal TSH values may differ from normal values for non -pregnant women. As a rule, in the first trimester of pregnancy, the TTG level should be lower than 2.5 honey/l, and in the second and third trimesters – below 3.0 honey/l. Increased TSH level at a normal or reduced level of St. T4 indicates hypothyroidism.

In addition, to diagnose iodine deficiency, you can use urine analysis for iodine concentration. This analysis allows you to evaluate iodine consumption with food and additives. The concentration of iodine in the urine is below 150 μg/l in pregnant women indicates iodine deficiency.

It is important to note that the interpretation of the results of laboratory tests should be carried out by a doctor who takes into account all the factors affecting the function of the thyroid gland, such as pregnancy, the presence of thyroid diseases in the history of the history and taking drugs.

Products rich in iodine: Diet for pregnant women

Providing sufficient iodine consumption with food is an important aspect of a healthy diet during pregnancy. The products rich in iodine include:

• Sea fish: Sea fish, such as cod, tuna, salmon and flounder, is an excellent source of iodine. The content of iodine in fish depends on its type and habitat.

• Seafood: Seafood, such as shrimp, mussels, oysters and sea scallops, also contain a significant amount of iodine.

• Seaweed: Sea algae, such as kelp (sea cabbage), Nori and Vakama, are one of the richest sources of iodine. They can be used as an additive for salads, soups and other dishes. However, moderation in the use of seaweed should be observed, as they can contain very high iodine concentrations, which can be harmful to the thyroid gland.

• Iodized salt: Iodated salt is the main source of iodine for many people. Adding iodine to salt is an effective way to prevent iodine deficiency in the population. When buying salt, you should pay attention to the availability of the “iodized” inscription on the package.

• Dairy products: Milk, yogurt and cheese contain a certain amount of iodine, which depends on the diet of animal nutrition and the use of iodine -containing additives in feed.

• Eggs: Eggs contain a certain amount of iodine, which depends on the diet of chickens.

When compiling a diet for pregnant women rich in iodine, individual preferences and restrictions should be taken into account. It is important to use a variety of products to provide the body with all the necessary nutrients. Before making significant changes to the diet, it is recommended to consult a doctor or nutritionist.

Iodine -containing additives: necessity and dosage during pregnancy

Despite the fact that some foods contain iodine, it is often difficult to achieve the recommended daily dose of iodine only due to nutrition, especially during pregnancy. In this regard, doctors often recommend taking iodine -containing supplements for pregnant women.

The recommended daily dose of iodine for pregnant women is 250 mcg. Most multivitamin complexes for pregnant women contain 150 μg of iodine, so women taking such complexes may require additional intake of iodine -containing additives.

When choosing an iodine -containing additive, attention should be paid to its composition and dosage. It is better to choose additives containing potassium iodide, as it is well absorbed by the body. It is important not to exceed the recommended daily dose of iodine, since the excess of iodine can also be harmful to the thyroid gland.

Reception of iodine -containing additives should be started as early as possible, preferably even before conception, to create a sufficient supply of iodine in the mother’s body at the time of pregnancy. Reception of additives should be continued throughout pregnancy and during breastfeeding, since iodine is necessary for the normal development of the thyroid gland and the nervous system of the child.

Before taking iodine -containing additives, it is necessary to consult a doctor in order to make sure that there are no contraindications and choose the optimal dosage. In some cases, for example, in the presence of autoimmune diseases of the thyroid gland, taking iodine -containing additives may be contraindicated.

The risks of iodine deficiency for mother and child

During pregnancy, iodine deficiency can lead to serious consequences for both the mother and the child.

Risk for mother:

• Hypothyroidism: Iodine deficiency can provoke hypothyroidism – a condition characterized by insufficient production of thyroid hormones. This can be manifested by fatigue, weight gain, constipation, dry skin, a decrease in concentration of attention and other symptoms. In more severe cases, hypothyroidism can lead to complications of pregnancy, such as preeclampsia, premature birth and miscarriage.

• Goiter: In response to iodine deficiency, the thyroid gland can increase in size, which leads to the formation of the goiter. The goiter can cause discomfort, complicate breathing and swallowing.

• Reduced fertility: Iodine deficiency can disrupt the menstrual cycle and reduce fertility.

Risks for the child:

• Disorders of the development of the nervous system: Iodine deficiency is the main cause of preventive mental retardation in the world. Thyroid hormones play a key role in the development of the brain and nervous system, especially in the first trimester of pregnancy. The disadvantage of iodine during this period can lead to irreversible disorders of the development of the nervous system, such as a decrease in intelligence, developmental delay, violation of motor skills, deafness and cretinism – a severe form of mental retardation, also characterized by physical ongoing.

• Hypothyroidism in a newborn: The iodine deficiency in the mother can lead to hypothyroidism in a newborn. Hypothyroidism in a newborn can slow down physical and mental development, and also lead to other serious health problems.

• Increased risk of perinatal mortality: Iodine deficiency can increase the risk of perinatal mortality (death of the fetus or newborn).

• Delay of growth and development: Iodine deficiency can slow down the growth and development of the child.

In this regard, the prevention of iodine deficiency during pregnancy is the most important task.

Prevention of iodine deficiency: Recommendations for pregnant women

The prevention of iodine deficiency during pregnancy includes the following measures:

• The use of iodized salt: The use of iodized salt instead of ordinary salt in cooking is an effective way to prevent iodine deficiency. Attention should be paid to the availability of “iodized” inscription on the package of salt.

• Inclusion in the diet of products rich in iodine: In the diet, it is necessary to include foods rich in iodine, such as sea fish, seafood, seaweed and dairy products.

• Reception of iodine -containing additives: Most pregnant women are recommended to take iodine-containing supplements at a dose of 150-250 μg per day. Reception of additives should begin as early as possible, preferably even before conception, and continue throughout pregnancy and during breastfeeding.

• Regular examination of the thyroid gland: Pregnant women, especially those who have a history of the thyroid gland in the history, are recommended to be regularly examined by an endocrinologist to control the function of the thyroid gland.

• Training in pregnant women and medical workers: It is important to conduct training in pregnant women and medical workers about the importance of iodine for the health of the mother and the child and the methods of preventing iodine deficiency.

Hyperthyroidism and pregnancy: the effect of iodine excess

Although iodine deficiency is a more common problem during pregnancy, the excess of iodine can also be harmful to the thyroid gland and can lead to hyperthyroidism – a condition characterized by excessive production of thyroid hormones.

Hyperthyroidism during pregnancy can be caused by various causes, including:

• Graves disease: Graves disease is an autoimmune disease in which the body produces antibodies stimulating the thyroid gland to the production of excess hormones.

• Nodal goiter: The nodal goiter is a condition in which nodes form in the thyroid gland that can autonomously produce hormones.

• Gestational transient thyrotoxicosis: Gestational transient thyrotoxicosis is a temporary condition that can occur in the first trimester of pregnancy and is associated with a high level of chorionic gonadotropin (hCG).

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism during pregnancy may include:

• Charp heartbeat
• Increased nervousness and irritability
• Weight loss
• Increased sweating
• Insomnia
• Tremor

Hyperthyroidism during pregnancy can lead to serious complications, such as:

• Preexia
• Premature birth
• Miscarriage
• Heart failure
• Thyrotoxic crisis

Treatment of hyperthyroidism during pregnancy is aimed at reducing the level of thyroid hormones and preventing complications. Treatment may include:

• Antitiraoid drugs: Antitiraoid drugs, such as propiltiouracyl (PTU) and metimazole, block the production of thyroid hormones. PTU is usually preferable in the first trimester of pregnancy, as it is less likely to cause congenital defects.

• Beta blockers: Beta blockers, such as propranolol, can be used to relieve symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as rapid heartbeat and tremors.

• Surgical treatment: Surgical treatment (removal of the thyroid gland) is rarely carried out during pregnancy, but it may be necessary in cases where drug treatment is ineffective.

It is important to note that the treatment of hyperthyroidism during pregnancy should be carried out under the strict supervision of a doctor, since antitiraoid drugs can penetrate through the placenta and influence the thyroid gland of the fetus.

The effect of an excess of iodine on the thyroid gland can manifest itself in different ways. In some people, an excess of iodine can suppress the function of the thyroid gland and lead to hypothyroidism, while in others it can stimulate the production of hormones and lead to hyperthyroidism. People with autoimmune thyroid diseases, such as Hashimoto’s disease, can be more susceptible to the effects of excess iodine.

In this regard, it is important to observe moderation in the use of iodine -containing products and additives and avoid excessive iodine consumption, especially during pregnancy.

Interaction of iodine with other substances and drugs

Iodine can interact with some substances and drugs, which can affect its assimilation and function of the thyroid gland.

• Selenium: Selenium is an important trace element that plays a role in the functioning of the thyroid gland. It is necessary for the transformation of thyroxine (T4) into triiodothyronine (T3) – a more active form of thyroid hormone. Selena deficiency can worsen the function of the thyroid gland and increase the risk of developing autoimmune thyroid diseases. Joint intake of iodine and selenium can improve the function of the thyroid gland and reduce the risk of side effects of iodine.

• Iron: Iron deficiency can worsen the function of the thyroid gland and reduce the effectiveness of iodine therapy. During pregnancy, it is important to maintain an adequate level of iron in the body, since iron deficiency is a common problem.

• Fluorine: Phthor can compete with iodine for the assimilation of the thyroid gland. Excessive fluorine consumption can worsen the function of the thyroid gland and increase the risk of iodine deficiency.

• Lithium: Lithium is a drug that is used to treat bipolar disorder. Litius can suppress the function of the thyroid gland and lead to hypothyroidism. When taking lithium, it is necessary to regularly control the function of the thyroid gland.

• Amiodaron: Amiodarone is a drug that is used to treat heart rhythm disorders. Amiodarone contains a large amount of iodine and can cause both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. When taking amiodarone, it is necessary to regularly control the function of the thyroid gland.

• Some food: Some food products, such as cruciferous vegetables (cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower), soy and peanuts, contain substances that can suppress the function of the thyroid gland. However, the moderate use of these products usually does not have a significant effect on the thyroid function.

When taking any drugs or the presence of thyroid diseases, it is necessary to consult a doctor before taking iodine-containing additives.

Breastfeeding and iodine: importance for the development of the child

Breastfeeding is the best way to feed for most newborns, since breast milk contains all the necessary nutrients, antibodies and growth factors necessary for the normal development of the baby. Iodine is one of the most important nutrients that is transmitted to the child through breast milk.

During breastfeeding, the need for iodine in the mother increases to 290 μg per day, since iodine is necessary for the synthesis of thyroid hormones not only for the mother, but also for the child. Breast milk is the main source of iodine for the baby, so adequate iodine consumption by the mother during breastfeeding is critical for the normal development of the thyroid gland and the nervous system of the child.

Mother iodine deficiency during breastfeeding can lead to a child’s deficiency, which can adversely affect its development. The iodine deficiency in a child can lead to hypothyroidism, impaired development of the nervous system, growth and development, as well as other health problems.

In this regard, it is recommended to continue taking iodine-containing additives at a dose of 150-250 mcg per day. In addition, it is important to include in the diet foods rich in iodine, such as sea fish, seafood, seaweed and dairy products.

The consequences of iodine deficiency in various regions of the world

Iodine deficiency is a global healthcare problem that affects millions of people around the world. People living in regions with a low iodine in soil and water, such as mountainous areas and areas remote from the sea, are most at risk of iodine deficiency.

The most severe consequences of iodine deficiency are observed in developing countries where iodized salt is not widely accessible and the population does not have access to food, rich in iodine. In these regions, iodine deficiency is the main cause of preventive mental retardation and other disorders of the development of the nervous system.

In regions with severe iodine deficiency, high indicators of cretinism are observed – severe mental retardation, also characterized by physical deformation. Cretinism is an irreversible state that leads to disability and reduces the quality of life.

In addition, iodine deficiency can lead to other health problems, such as goiter, hypothyroidism, impaired reproductive function and increased risk of perinatal mortality.

In developed countries, iodine deficiency is less common, thanks to the programs of salt and the availability of food, rich in iodine. However, even in these countries, some population groups, such as pregnant women who feed mothers and vegetarians, can be at risk of iodine deficiency.

To solve the problem of iodine deficiency, comprehensive measures are needed, including:

• Salt iodization: Salt iodine is the most effective and economical way to prevent iodine deficiency in the population.

• Education and informing the population: It is important to conduct educational programs for the population about the importance of iodine for health and about the methods of preventing iodine deficiency.

• Monitoring of iodine consumption: It is necessary to monitor iodine consumption in a population to assess the effectiveness of iodine deficiency programs.

• Iodine additives: In some cases, for example, during pregnancy and breastfeeding, iodine -containing additives may be required.

Alternative sources of iodine: In addition to salt and additives

In addition to iodized salt and iodine -containing additives, there are other alternative iodine sources that can be used to ensure adequate iodine consumption.

• Seaweed: Sea algae, such as kelp (sea cabbage), Nori and Vakama, are one of the richest sources of iodine. They can be used as an additive for salads, soups and other dishes. However, moderation in the use of seaweed should be observed, as they can contain very high iodine concentrations, which can be harmful to the thyroid gland.

• Nose with sea water: Nose with sea water can contain a small amount of iodine. However, the amount of iodine, which is absorbed when using sprays for the nose, may be insignificant and cannot replace other sources of iodine.

• Local products grown on soils rich in iodine: In some regions, the soil can be rich in iodine, and products grown on these soils can contain more iodine than products grown on soils with a low iodine content. However, the content of iodine in products can vary depending on many factors, such as the type of plant, variety, growing conditions and method of preparation.

• Water enriched with iodine: In some countries, water is enriched with iodine. However, the iodine content in such water can be different, and it is necessary to carefully study the information on the label before use.

It is important to note that before using alternative sources of iodine, you need to consult a doctor in order to verify their safety and effectiveness.

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