More than 60% of first-time pregnant women in Ireland may not be getting enough iodine, according to new research from University College Cork (UCC). The findings point to a serious public health concern and call for stronger nutrition policies to protect mothers and their babies.
The study, published in the European Journal of Nutrition, examined the iodine levels of over 1,500 pregnant women attending Cork University Maternity Hospital. It was led by Dr. Áine Hennessy of the Irish Centre for Maternal and Child Health Research (INFANT) and the Cork Centre for Vitamin D & Nutrition Research.
Widespread Iodine Deficiency Found
Key results from the study show:
- 60% of women had low iodine levels during pregnancy.
- The average urinary iodine concentration (UIC) was 125µg/L. This is below the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommended level of 150µg/L for pregnant women.
- Deficiency was more common among women who were younger, had a higher body mass index (BMI), lower education levels, or were not taking iodine-containing supplements.
- Iodine levels dropped during the summer months, suggesting seasonal factors also affect intake.
This is the first large-scale study to assess iodine levels in pregnant women in Ireland. The results show that even women considered healthy and low-risk may not be getting the iodine they need—despite many taking pregnancy supplements.
Why Iodine Matters
Iodine is critical for making thyroid hormones. These hormones are essential for a baby’s brain development during pregnancy. Because the body can’t produce iodine, we must get it from food or supplements. During pregnancy, a woman’s iodine needs increase by 50%. Without enough iodine, children may suffer from impaired brain development and other long-term health problems.
“Iodine deficiency is one of the most common micronutrient deficiencies worldwide,” said Dr. Hennessy. “There is little public awareness of its importance for brain development during pregnancy.”
Calls for Better Nutrition Policies
Currently, Ireland has no national policy for salt iodization or food fortification with iodine. While clinical guidelines recommend getting iodine from food, the study suggests awareness and dietary intake are still too low.
Dr. Hennessy recommends the following:
- Consume two or more servings of milk or yogurt per day.
- Eat white fish at least once a week.
- For those on vegan or plant-based diets, choose iodine-fortified options.
- Avoid seaweed or kelp supplements, which may contain dangerously high iodine levels.
“This study shows we need better public health policies and education for women of childbearing age,” said Dr. Hennessy. “Awareness is key to preventing long-term harm to children.”
The findings offer a strong case for reviewing nutrition strategies and ensuring expectant mothers get the nutrients they need for a healthy pregnancy.
