Final answer:
Excessive iodine exposure during pregnancy can damage the fetal nervous system. It can result in goiter and impaired growth and development in children. Pregnant women should avoid substances that may harm the fetus and ensure adequate nutrient intake.
Step-by-step explanation:
During pregnancy, exposure to excessive iodine from foods, prenatal supplements, or medications is especially damaging to the development of the fetal nervous system.
Dietary iodine deficiency can result in impaired synthesis of thyroid hormones, leading to various severe disorders. When thyroid hormones cannot be produced, thyroglobulin accumulates in the thyroid gland follicles, causing goiter and impaired growth and development. Neonatal hypothyroidism can also occur in children born to iodine-deficient mothers, which is characterized by cognitive deficits and short stature.
In addition to avoiding harmful substances, a pregnant woman should ensure she is taking in adequate nutrients for normal fetal growth and development. Most nutrients are needed in greater amounts during pregnancy, but some are particularly important, such as folic acid, calcium, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids.