Low levels of iodine, an essential mineral, may cause infertility problems. It is necessary for proper functioning of the thyroid gland. Iodine found in iodized salt, seafood and dairy products helps to regulate metabolism. An under balanced iodine intake halts the much desired pregnancy one has been waiting for.
“Women with mild deficiency have a hard time getting pregnant,” said to Dr. James Mill of U.S National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. Interplay between nutrition and conception can be observed during fertility studies, according to the experts.
Dr. Tomer Singer, Director of reproductive endocrinology and infertility at Lenox Hill Hospital said, “Prenatal vitamins are required by patients, at least 3 months before conception.”
Most importantly, iodine plays an integral role in brain development during pregnancy. About 30 percent women of childbearing age suffer from insufficient iodine levels, noted researchers of Human Reproduction in a recent study.
A survey on 470 American women who were trying to conceive having severe iodine deficiency showed that chances of pregnancy reduces to 46% during each menstrual cycle.
Iodine requirements increase during pregnancies as the fetus depends on this nutrient to make thyroid hormone and also to ensure normal brain development. The prenatal vitamins should have 150 micrograms of iodine as stated by the American Thyroid Association’s 2015 analysis. These vitamins should be taken before and after delivery and also during lactation.
The mineral maintains normal levels of thyroid hormone. It is essential to avoid hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. In addition, good rate of ovulation along with a proper functioning immune system is required at the preconception stage.
Serious complications like mental retardation of the baby and cretinism, a disorder pertaining to stunted physical and mental growth of the infant, must be taken care of. Resupplying your body with well-balanced iodine containing food normalizes such disturbing issues.
Onions, mushrooms, spinach, lettuces, green peppers and peanuts possess a good amount of iodine. Iodine levels in food vary from place to place. So consumption level shall also vary accordingly.
The thyroid gland is significant for fertility. Without iodine supplementation, possibility of conceiving depletes radically. Maternal iodine deficit is associated with miscarriage, stillbirth and congenital abnormality. You should definitely consult a healthcare provider or a nutritionist who will prescribe a well composed diet that stops any further complications.
There is no better feeling than the movement of a new life growing inside you. Choosing a prudent diet can make a woman realize her dream to become a mother.