Iodine Supplementation Improves Intelligence in Children

It is well known that severe iodine deficiency is deleterious to neurological development.  A new study now shows that even a mild iodine deficiency inhibits optimal intelligence and cognitive ability in children.

In a study with 184 mildly iodine deficient children, ages 10-13, half were supplemented with 150 mcg of iodine for 28 weeks, the other half given a placebo.  The iodine supplemented children scored higher on cognitive performance at the end of the study period, corresponding to higher blood iodine levels and improved thyroid lab scores.

The researchers noted that “mild iodine deficiency could prevent children from attaining their full intellectual potential.” 

There is no question that optimizing nutrition throughout childhood is a key to maximizing inherent genetic potential for learning, cognitive skills, and human ability.