Why you likely need more iodine
Iodine, Your Thyroid, and Pregnancy: Why This Tiny Nutrient Matters for Moms
Iodine might not be the first thing on your mind during pregnancy and postpartum, but this little mineral plays a huge role in your energy, mood, and even your baby’s brain development. If you’re feeling extra tired, struggling with weight, or noticing hair loss after having your baby, low iodine levels could be part of the reason.
What Does Iodine Have to Do with the Thyroid?
Your thyroid is the boss of your metabolism, energy, and hormones—and it relies on iodine to do its job. Without enough iodine, your thyroid can slow down (hello, fatigue and brain fog!) or even cause issues with fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum recovery.
Why Iodine is SO Important During Pregnancy
Pregnancy increases your need for iodine because you’re not just fueling your own body—you’re also supporting your baby’s brain, nervous system, and thyroid.
Here’s why it’s a must-have:
💡 Baby’s Brain Development – Iodine is essential for IQ, focus, and learning. Low levels in pregnancy can lead to cognitive delays or even more serious issues.
💪 Prevents Thyroid Problems – Not getting enough can cause hypothyroidism, which leads to exhaustion, weight struggles, and even fertility challenges.
❤️ Reduces Miscarriage & Preterm Birth Risk – Iodine plays a key role in keeping pregnancy healthy and full-term.
🫁 Supports the Placenta – A healthy placenta = better oxygen and nutrients for your growing baby!
Iodine’s Role in Postpartum Recovery
After birth, your body still needs iodine to keep up with all the changes happening hormonally and physically.
Here’s why it matters postpartum:
🌿 Keeps Your Thyroid Stable – Many moms experience postpartum thyroiditis, which can lead to mood swings, weight issues, and exhaustion.
🥛 Supports Breastfeeding – Your baby relies on iodine from breast milk to support their thyroid and brain development. If your levels are low, theirs will be too.
⚡ Helps with Energy & Metabolism – Low iodine = sluggish metabolism, which can make postpartum fatigue even worse.
💖 Balances Mood – Since thyroid hormones affect serotonin and dopamine (your feel-good chemicals), getting enough iodine can help with postpartum mood balance.
Signs You Might Need More Iodine
Feeling exhausted, brain foggy, or sluggish
Cold hands and feet (even when others feel fine!)
Hair thinning or excessive shedding
Dry skin or brittle nails
Trouble losing weight postpartum
Low milk supply or struggles with breastfeeding
How to Get Enough Iodine
The good news? It’s easy to boost your iodine levels naturally!
🥑 Eat iodine-rich foods – Seaweed (best source!), wild-caught fish, dairy, eggs, and iodized salt.
💊 Check your prenatal vitamin – Not all prenatals contain iodine! Make sure yours has at least 150-220 mcg during pregnancy and 250-290 mcg while breastfeeding.
🔬 Get your levels checked – A Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA) or iodine loading test can help you see if you need more. These are two tests we run on our clients within our 1:1 program!
🚫 Watch for iodine blockers – Fluoride (in water), bromine (in some breads), and chlorine can interfere with iodine absorption. Limited/avoiding these can be extremely helpful.
Final Thoughts
Iodine is a tiny but mighty nutrient that can make a huge difference in how you feel during pregnancy and postpartum. If you’re dealing with low energy, hair loss, or postpartum thyroid struggles, checking your iodine levels could be a game-changer.
Nourishing your body with iodine-rich foods, choosing the right prenatal, and getting tested if needed are simple ways to support both you and your baby. Because when mom feels good, baby thrives ….and we’re all about that life!
Ready to get some answers to your thyroid struggles (that doesn’t include medication)?! Apply to work with our team of expert clinicians.