IODINE
What Is IODINE?
Iodine is an essential trace element required for thyroid hormone synthesis, which regulates metabolism, growth, and neurodevelopment. The body cannot produce iodine, so it must be obtained through diet or supplements from sources like iodized salt, seafood, dairy, and kelp. Iodine deficiency is the leading preventable cause of cognitive impairment worldwide, while excess iodine can trigger thyroid dysfunction in susceptible individuals.
IODINE Research & Studies
01 The epidemiology of thyroid disease ▸
Iodine deficiency is the most common cause of thyroid disorders worldwide, leading to goiter and hypothyroidism. In iodine-replete areas, autoimmune thyroid disease becomes more prevalent.
View Study (PubMed)02 Nutrition and brain development in early life ▸
Iodine deficiency clearly impairs brain development, particularly during pregnancy and infancy when rapid neurodevelopmental processes occur. Adequate iodine is essential for preventing permanent cognitive deficits.
View Study (PubMed)03 Iodine deficiency: Clinical implications ▸
While US iodine status is considered sufficient at the population level, the percentage of women of childbearing age with deficiency is increasing. Major dietary sources are dairy products and iodized salt.
View Study (PubMed)04 Iodine-induced thyroid dysfunction ▸
Excess iodine is generally well tolerated but can cause hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism in individuals with underlying thyroid disease or risk factors. Sources include iodinated contrast media, amiodarone, and excessive seaweed consumption.
View Study (PubMed)05 Iodine Deficiency and Supplementation in Pregnancy ▸
Severe iodine deficiency during pregnancy causes adverse obstetric outcomes and decreased child IQ, though effects of mild-to-moderate deficiency remain unclear. Pregnant women require 220-250 µg/day of iodine.
View Study (PubMed)06 A concise review of Hashimoto thyroiditis and the importance of iodine, selenium, vitamin D and gluten ▸
In Hashimoto's thyroiditis patients, careful supplementation of possible deficiencies including iodine is recommended, though excessive iodine can exacerbate autoimmune thyroid disease.
View Study (PubMed)07 Iodine and Hyperthyroidism: A Double-Edged Sword ▸
Excessive iodine exposure can lead to hyperthyroidism when normal homeostatic mechanisms fail, occurring most frequently in historically iodine-deficient regions with autonomously functioning thyroid nodules.
View Study (PubMed)08 Iodine supplementation: is there a need? ▸
Most countries have achieved adequate iodine intake through fortification programs. Cochrane reviews found no evidence that iodine supplementation in areas with mild-to-moderate deficiency improved infant cognitive development.
View Study (PubMed)IODINE User Reviews & Experiences
*Based on large scale analysis of publicly available user experiences
Users generally report positive experiences with iodine supplementation, particularly for resolving deficiency-related symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and low energy. Many describe dramatic improvements in mental clarity and physical vitality, though there are important warnings about proper dosing and thyroid conditions.
IODINE Benefits, Dosage & Side Effects
- Energy and Mental Clarity: Users consistently report elimination of brain fog, increased energy levels, and restoration of mental focus after supplementing with iodine, often describing it as life-changing
- Thyroid Function: Multiple users experienced resolution of hypothyroid symptoms including cold sensitivity, low body temperature, and fatigue when addressing previously unrecognized iodine deficiency
- Mood Improvement: Several users report significant improvements in depression symptoms, with one noting complete resolution of long-term depression after starting iodine and selenium supplementation
- Physical Performance: Improved exercise capacity, reduced need for naps, and enhanced physical stamina commonly reported after correcting deficiency
- Deficiency Response: Iodine supplementation appears highly effective for those with actual deficiency, with many users reporting dramatic improvements within days to weeks of starting supplementation
- Individual Variation: Effectiveness varies significantly based on baseline iodine status, thyroid health, and dietary habits. Those consuming no iodized salt, seafood, or dairy appear most responsive
- Testing Importance: Multiple experienced users emphasize getting iodine levels tested before supplementing, as effects can be harmful with excess intake or in certain thyroid conditions
- Cofactor Support: Selenium is frequently mentioned as an important cofactor to take alongside iodine for optimal thyroid function and safety
- Standard Supplementation: Most users report taking 150-225 mcg daily, consistent with RDA recommendations, often through kelp supplements or iodized salt
- Higher Doses: Some experienced users report taking much higher doses (Lugol's solution providing 37.5 mg daily), though this is controversial and not recommended without medical supervision
- Food Sources: Users mention getting iodine from eggs (45 mcg per egg), iodized salt (1 gram contains approximately 76 mcg), dairy products, and seafood as dietary alternatives
- Gradual Introduction: Several users recommend starting with lower doses and monitoring response, particularly for those with autoimmune thyroid conditions who may be sensitive to iodine
- Acne and Skin Issues: Iodine excess has been linked to acne breakouts, particularly monomorphic inflammatory pustules on face and trunk, mentioned in both research and user reports
- Thyroid Dysfunction Risk: Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can occur with excessive iodine intake, especially in those with underlying thyroid conditions like Hashimoto's
- Autoimmune Exacerbation: Users with Hashimoto's thyroiditis report that even modest iodine supplementation can accelerate thyroid cell destruction and worsen symptoms
- Interaction Effects: When taken in multivitamin or supplement stacks, iodine contributed to digestive issues and brain fog in some users, resolving when supplements were discontinued
- Common Sources: Widely available as kelp supplements, nascent iodine, Lugol's solution, potassium iodide tablets, and iodized salt. Users report kelp and Irish sea moss as popular natural sources
- Cost: Generally inexpensive, with most users finding affordable options. Kelp supplements providing RDA doses cost significantly less than specialty nascent iodine formulations
- Quality Concerns: Users note that iodized salt may provide unreliable amounts of iodine as it degrades over time and with exposure to moisture and air
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