West Haven, CT, Sept. 13, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Worldwide, iodine deficiency is a public health issue in 47 countries, and 38% of the world’s population lives in areas with iodine deficiency.

Many populations still have no access to iodized salt or live in iodine-poor areas without imported food sources. There are concerns that current trends to consume sea salt and other non-iodine fortified salts can (and do) have adverse consequences.

Iodine is required for the development of the nervous system and brain, so even a small amount of iodine deficiency can cause neurodevelopmental problems. Such a deficiency can cause a child to have, for example, lower than average intelligence. Studies suggest that moderate to severe iodine deficiency, especially in children, reduces IQ by 12-13.5 points.

Even in countries with a low instance of iodine deficiency, such as the United States, pregnant women commonly have insufficient iodine intake.  An insufficient iodine intake during pregnancy means that the developing fetus will also be iodine deficient, causing major neurodevelopmental deficits and growth retardation. Chronic severe iodine deficiency is known to cause Congenital iodine deficiency syndrome, previously known as cretinism in the child, a condition characterized by partial or complete loss of hearing, intellectual disability, motor spasticity, stunted growth, delayed sexual maturation, and other physical and neurological abnormalities. In the most severe cases, iodine deficiency can even lead to miscarriage and stillbirth. Even mild cases of iodine deficiency can increase the risk of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. This aspect of iodine deficiency is of special concern because pregnant women are often iodine deficient, even in countries where iodine deficiency is usually not an issue.

By reformulating supplements and adding iodine to foods, the food industry can combat these issues and explore new markets for iodine.

“As public education and fitness trends make Americans more aware of their dietary needs, they are seeking fortified foods and supplements that can help them reach recommended daily intake levels of essential nutrients,” stated Moira Watson, Vice President of Marketing and Communication at Watson Inc.  She continued, “This is good news for food and beverage manufacturers that are looking to engage with consumers who are increasingly health-conscious.” 

Iodine is an essential nutrient, and while great strides have been made in combatting iodine deficiency around the world, there is still more to do. To assist the food and supplement industries in addressing this need, Watson has published a 20-page Illustrated Guide to Iodine.  The guide is available free for download at the company’s website.  The link is provided here: https://info.watson-inc.com/iodine-nutrient-guide

About Watson:  For four generations, Watson has striven to improve health and wellness. We are committed to sharing our ideas and inspirations with our customers and to helping them reach their goals. Watson is one of the highest-quality suppliers of products and services geared towards enhancing human and pet nutrition around the world, and a leader in developing quality products and nutritional ingredient systems. Expertise in microencapsulation, agglomeration, micronizing, spray drying and film technology allows us to develop unique formulations.  Learn more about Watson here: https://www.watson-inc.com/

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