Why is iodine so important for children?

Iodine is necessary for the production of the thyroid hormones T3 and T4. These hormones regulate metabolism, but they are also essential for brain development – especially during fetal life and childhood.

Iodine, IQ, and Learning – What Does the Research Show?

Research over the past decades has shown that iodine status can affect children’s cognitive development. This is not about dramatic individual cases, but about small, systematic differences in how the brain develops at the population level.

• Meta-analyses have found 6–10 IQ points lower average in populations with iodine deficiency compared to populations with sufficient iodine status.
• Intervention studies have shown improvement in some measures of attention and problem-solving when iodine deficiency is corrected in schoolchildren.
• UNICEF and WHO describe iodine deficiency as an important but preventable cause of reduced cognitive potential globally.

The Situation in Norway

In Norway, several studies have indicated that certain groups – especially women of childbearing age, young girls, and some child groups – may have low iodine intake. This does not mean all children have iodine deficiency, but many are not optimally aligned with recommendations.

As the diet gradually moves away from seafood and dairy products, iodine intake also decreases. Therefore, iodine status is something parents must actively consider – especially for growing children.

• Children who rarely or never eat white fish.
• Children who drink little or no milk/yogurt.
• Plant-based or dairy-free diets without compensating iodine sources.
• Picky eaters with very limited diets.
• Frequent use of ready-made food, snacks, or other “quick fixes” instead of regular meals.

Common Misconceptions About Iodine

• “Children always get enough from food.” – for many, this is no longer true.
• “Iodine is only about metabolism.” – the brain and nervous system especially depend on it during development.
• “Children show clear symptoms if they lack iodine.” – mild deficiency can be completely silent.
• “Supplements are only for adults.” – children may need tailored doses if dietary intake is low.

Age and Needs

Iodine needs vary with age and developmental stage.

• 3–6 years
• 6–11 years
• 11–18 years
• Adults

Both international organizations and European recommendations emphasize the importance of steady, daily iodine intake – especially during periods of rapid growth and development.

Common Parental Situations

You might recognize one or more of these:

• A child who refuses to eat fish.
• A child who only likes “dry” or very simple foods.
• A teenage child who often skips breakfast.
• A busy family where meals are often quick and repetitive.
• Children who drink little milk or yogurt during the week.

What Can Parents Do?

• 1 Look at how often the child actually gets white fish, milk, and yogurt during a typical week.
• 2 Increase natural iodine sources where possible and realistic for the family.
• 3 Consider iodine supplements if the diet alone does not cover the recommended intake – especially for growing children and youth.
• 4 Think long-term: steady, sufficient iodine over time is more important than “perfect” single days.

Summary

Iodine is rarely the first topic to come up at health clinics or parent meetings. Yet it is one of the building blocks that can affect a child’s learning, energy, and development over time.

The most important thing is not whether you choose to address it with diet, supplements, or a combination. The most important thing is that you understand the role iodine plays in the child’s normal development – and make informed choices from there.