Best iodine supplements: Benefits and uses

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Iodine is a mineral that may help thyroid function. The human body does not naturally produce it, but it is found in some foods. A doctor may suggest an iodine supplement if they feel it will benefit a person's health.

Iodine deficiency is common, especially among people who follow a vegan diet and pregnant people.

Although iodine supplements are easy to find, it is important for people to speak with a doctor before taking them, as too much iodine can cause side effects and complications.

This article looks at what iodine does, its benefits, risks, and side effects. It also lists some iodine supplement products.

Iodine is a mineral that the human body does not naturally produce. It is found in some foods, such as:

Iodine is essential for creating and maintaining thyroid hormones. Thyroid function is important for metabolism.

During pregnancy and in infants, iodine is essential for bone and brain development.

Additionally, a 2020 research review found that people following a vegan diet are at risk of having a low iodine level, so they may benefit from taking supplements under a doctor's care.

Find out more about iodine here.

People may wish to consider the following when looking for an iodine supplement:

Medical News Today chooses products that meet the following criteria:

Below is a list of iodine supplements that a person may consider.

Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.

Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.

These capsules are vegan-friendly and gluten-free, according to the company. As well as iodine, ingredients include hypoallergenic plant fiber. The manufacturer's recommended serving size is 1 capsule taken once or twice per day with a meal.

According to the company, these capsules are vegetarian. They contain three forms of iodine: molecular iodine, sodium iodide, and potassium iodide. Ingredients also include plant fiber and silica.

Although this product is a multivitamin, it contains a dose of iodine for kids. It also includes a range of other vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, D, B12, and E as well as folate, biotin, and zinc.

The gummies contain sugar. They are suitable for people following a vegan diet, according to the company.

Cons

As well as iodine, these capsules contain 25 nutrients necessary for a healthy pregnancy. Ingredients include various vitamins, folate, iron, magnesium, and zinc. According to the company, the mini capsules are vegetarian.

The serving size of this product is 1–2 drops daily, which a person can drop on their tongue. The drops are unflavored, so a person can add them to their choice of beverage.

As well as iodine, these drops contain organic vegetable glycerin and purified water. According to the manufacturer, they are also free from dairy, nuts, and gluten.

The company states this product is vegan-friendly and USDA-certified organic.

Kelp is a type of iodine-rich seaweed and is the only ingredient in this product. It is sold by weight rather than volume.

The dosage is 1 level scoop daily. The manufacturer recommends taking it with a meal.

According to the company, this product is kosher, vegan-friendly, and USDA-certified organic. It is also free from gluten, corn, dairy, egg, soy, and nut.

These high potency tablets contain a blend of:

The company does not state whether the product is vegan-friendly.

According to the company, these capsules are vegan. They contain cellulose and water. The iodine is from organic, whole plant kelp.

A person can choose a one-time purchase or choose a money-saving subscription.

These capsules contain tyrosine as well as iodine. The company claims tyrosine may reduce fatigue and support the thyroid and adrenal glands.

According to the manufacturer, the product is suitable for vegans and is free from gluten, soy, and dairy.

To avoid side effects, people can ensure they follow the manufacturer's serving suggestions or medical advice from their doctor when taking iodine supplements.

Increasing iodine levels above the recommended amount may cause unwanted side effects, such as:

Iodine is most useful in thyroid function and the prevention of thyroid-related health conditions. It is also essential for brain and bone development in infants and during pregnancy.

However, too much iodine over time can cause enlarged thyroid glands, inflammation of the thyroid, and thyroid cancer. Therefore, anybody taking iodine supplements must adhere to the appropriate dosage.

The upper limit for iodine differs by age. The table below details the upper limits for iodine per each age group, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH):

The NIH notes these levels reflect total iodine intake from all sources, including food and supplements. They do not apply to people taking iodine under a doctor's care.

Below are some common questions about iodine supplements.

Symptoms of an iodine deficiency include:

Find out more about the symptoms of iodine deficiency here.

Iodine supplements may provide the most benefit to pregnant people and people who do not get enough iodine from the food they eat, such as those following a vegan diet.

It may take a few weeks for iodine supplements to begin having positive effects, but it is difficult to say exactly how long it will take. It depends on many factors, such as the dosage and the severity of a person's iodine deficiency.

Iodine is an essential mineral that promotes thyroid function. It is not naturally produced by the body but is contained in many foods. Supplements may help people who need to increase their iodine levels, such as pregnant people.

People should always seek medical advice before considering iodine supplements. When purchasing a supplement, they should ensure the manufacturer they choose uses third-party testing.

To avoid side effects, people can follow manufacturer dosage instructions and take care not to exceed the upper iodine intake levels.