Optimizing Growth: The Case for Iodine

Abstract

Iodine is an essential micronutrient and component of thyroid hormone. An adequate dietary iodine intake is critical to maintain and promote normal growth and development, especially during vulnerable life stages such as pregnancy and early infancy. The role of iodine in cognitive development is supported by numerous interventional and observational studies, and when iodine intake is too low, somatic growth is also impaired. This can be clearly seen in cases of untreated congenital hypothyroidism related to severe iodine deficiency, which is characterized, in part, by a short stature. Nevertheless, the impact of a less severe iodine deficiency on growth, whether in utero or postnatal, is unclear. Robust studies examining the relationship between iodine and growth are rarely feasible, including the aspect of examining the effect of a single micronutrient on a process that is reliant on multiple nutrients for optimal success. Conversely, excessive iodine intake can affect thyroid function and the secretion of optimal thyroid hormone levels; however, whether this affects growth has not been examined. This narrative review outlines the mechanisms by which iodine contributes to the growth process from conception onwards, supported by evidence from human studies. It emphasizes the need for adequate iodine public health policies and their robust monitoring and surveillance, to ensure coverage for all population groups, particularly those at life stages vulnerable for growth. Finally, it summarizes the other micronutrients important to consider alongside iodine when seeking to assess the impact of iodine on somatic growth.