Alternative Health Blog

In a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study involving 184 mildly iodine-deficient children, aged 10-13 years old, results indicate that iodine supplementation may improve cognition. The children were randomized to receive a daily tablet containing either 150 microg iodine or placebo for 28 weeks. Cognitive performance was evaluated at intervention end. Children in the iodine group showed significant improved scores in picture concepts and matrix reasoning, compared with children in the placebo group. Thus, the authors of this study conclude, “Iodine supplementation improved perceptual reasoning in mildly iodine-deficient children and suggests that mild iodine deficiency could prevent children from attaining their full intellectual potential.”
 
Reference:
“Iodine supplementation improves cognition in mildly iodine-deficient children,” Gordon RC, Ruffman T, et al, Am J Clin Nutr, 2009; 90(5): 1264-71.