Iodine
mineral
ApprovedGeneral information about nutrients. No diagnosis, no medical advice. If you take medication, are pregnant or have a medical condition, talk to your doctor before taking supplements.
Overview
Iodine contributes to the normal production of thyroid hormones and normal thyroid function. Iodine contributes to normal cognitive function.
Interactions
Selenium-dependent deiodinases convert T4 to the active thyroid hormone T3. Selenium contributes to the normal thyroid function.
Top 5 food sources
Expert opinions
NIH
The NIH UL of 1,100 µg/day for iodine is set on thyroid dysfunction from excess — ironically, too much iodine can trigger Hashimoto-like thyroiditis or iodine-induced hypothyroidism (Wolff-Chaikoff). RDA is 150 µg/day (220–290 µg pregnancy/lactation) and is met for most US adults via iodized salt, dairy, and seafood. Iodine status is assessed through urinary iodine concentration, not serum. Sudden switch from low-iodine to high-iodine intake in previously deficient populations can unmask thyroid autonomy, requiring gradual dose increase.
Recommended dose: 150 mcg
Source: NIH
Dr. Strunz
Strunz classifies Germany and most of Central Europe as iodine-deficient, with median urinary iodine chronically below WHO sufficiency (100 µg/L). He supplements 150 to 300 µg potassium iodide daily, higher amounts only if Hashimoto's thyroiditis has been ruled out, and always pairs it with 100 to 200 µg selenium. He warns against high-dose iodine (Iodoral, Lugol) without TPO-antibody screening, as it can trigger autoimmune flares in predisposed individuals.
Recommended dose: 150–200 mcg
Source: Dr. Strunz
Expert profiles summarise publicly available statements. The named people do not cooperate with Stackwell and have not authorised these summaries. Not medical advice.
Iodized salt covers most needs. Extra supplementation only for specific conditions.