In the not so distant past babies born to mothers with low thyroid function which could be due to low levels of iodine had terrible birth defects. It's the defect officially known as cretinism. While for most of us it's is just a nasty word we use to insult each other, 100 years ago being born a 'cretin' was due to dietary imbalance, a condition that is still seen today in many developing countries. It's a condition that most health professionals would consider a thing of our distant past but according to the Australian Thyroid Foundation more than half of Australia's pregnant women might be iodine deficient.

GET SMART – PROTECT YOUR BABY’S BRAIN

If you are considering pregnancy, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, your thyroid function and an adequate daily intake of iodine is essential for the brain development of your baby. Australian research shows 50% of pregnant women are iodine deficient, which can affect the development of the foetal brain and lead to lower intelligence and learning difficulties.

The Australian Thyroid Foundation recommends you take a specifically-formulated daily pregnancy supplement containing at least 150 micrograms of iodine. Also replace the salt you use with iodised salt, to ensure you get adequate iodine in your daily diet.

The Australian Thyroid Foundation also recommends ensuring you speak to your doctor about the importance of testing and monitoring your thyroid hormone levels. A healthy Thyroid hormone level is essential for the development of the foetus and sustaining pregnancy.

Safeguard your baby's development and speak to your GP or obstetrician about the benefits of Iodine Supplementation and Good Thyroid Health.