New study finds toxic chemicals and lack of sufficient iodine in prenatal supplements: Seaweed supplements, like Doctor Seaweed, offer a safe, natural solution for pregnant women
A new observational study conducted by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition has found that many prenatal vitamins contain harmful chemicals and toxic metals like lead, cadmium, and arsenic which put both mother and baby at risk during pregnancy. Â
In addition, the study found 60% of common prenatal vitamins provide less than half of the required daily iodine intake. For expectant mothers, deficiency of this essential nutrient could pose risks to both maternal health and the developing baby. However, a natural alternative, seaweed supplements like Doctor Seaweed, presents a more effective solution to ensure safe and adequate iodine intake during pregnancy.
Iodine plays a crucial role in the development of the baby’s brain and nervous system, with deficiencies linked to developmental delays, and an increased risk of miscarriage or preterm birth. Other studies have shown that low iodine nutrition in mothers during pregnancy is associated with lower cognitive and verbal function in children. The World Health Organization (WHO) advises pregnant women to consume 250 micrograms of iodine per day, and as iodine is not synthesized by the body, pregnant women need to ensure they get enough from dietary sources or supplements. Traditional sources include dairy, and fish, but for many women, meeting these requirements can be difficult, especially for those who follow plant-based diets or have dietary restrictions.
Seaweed as a Natural Source of Iodine
Unlike many synthetic supplements, the right kind of seaweed offers a natural and abundant source of iodine. Seaweed varieties, such as kelp, nori, and wakame, are rich in iodine and can provide pregnant women with a more reliable and bioavailable source of this critical nutrient. Natural seaweed supplements like Doctor Seaweed offer a safe, convenient, sustainable, and plant-based option that helps pregnant women meet their iodine requirements without relying on synthetic supplements or consuming large quantities of white fish.
Doctor Seaweed’s organic supplements are research-led, with clinical trials and provide an easy, convenient, and highly bioavailable form of iodine derived from sustainably harvested Scottish seaweed. Each serving of Doctor Seaweed delivers a precise and consistent dose of iodine, supporting optimal thyroid function, brain development, and overall maternal health throughout pregnancy.
Benefits of Doctor Seaweed for Prenatal & Pregnant Women
- Natural, Sustainable Source: Doctor Seaweed uses ethically sourced Scottish seaweed, ensuring both high-quality iodine levels and environmental responsibility.
- Bioavailable Iodine: The iodine in seaweed is more easily absorbed by the body compared to synthetic iodine found in many prenatal vitamins.
- Convenience: Seaweed supplements are an easy and convenient way to ensure optimal iodine intake without the need for drastic dietary changes.
- Holistic Health Support: In addition to iodine, seaweed provides essential minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants that contribute to overall well-being during pregnancy.
Claudia Le Feuvre, nutritionist and expert in female health, emphasises the importance of iodine for pregnancy: “Young women of childbearing age are the most susceptible to the adverse effects of iodine deficiency and even mild deficiency may have an impact on the developing brain of foetuses and young children. As a nutritionist, I always check iodine levels in my female clients who are trying to conceive or are pregnant. It’s fascinating how our bodies need considerably more iodine during pregnancy. This mineral plays such a big role in keeping both mum and baby healthy, especially for the foetus’ brain development. It’s these small but crucial details that can make all the difference in a fertility journey. Adequate iodine intake is critical for both maternal and fetal health. Unfortunately, many prenatal vitamins don’t meet the recommended iodine levels. Seaweed-based supplements like Doctor Seaweed offer a practical and effective alternative for pregnant women to ensure they are getting enough iodine during this critical time.”
