Iodine is of special importance for the entire metabolism of the body, and in particular for the thyroid gland hormones, which regulate the energy balance in the body and thus the physical as well as the mental development. And it is exactly these hormones which need iodine as “fuel”. A lack of iodine will cause the thyroid gland to enlarge – even visibly – the well-known goitre is also named struma.
As the formation of the thyroid gland hormones starts from week 12 of the pregnancy, it is all the more important that moms-to-be make sure they are getting enough iodine. They have to cover not only their own requirements, but should consider that they have an increased need for iodine due to their pregnancy.
