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Iodine
Also called: Potassium iodide, kelp
A trace mineral the thyroid uses to make its hormones. Both too little and too much can cause thyroid problems, so more is not better.
Commonly used for
- Preventing iodine deficiency
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding, when needs rise (as directed)
- Diets low in iodized salt, dairy, and seafood
Found naturally in
- Iodized salt
- Seaweed (amounts vary widely)
- Cod and other seafood
- Dairy
- Eggs
Label red flags
- Kelp, bladderwrack, or seaweed in a 'thyroid support' formula, where the iodine amount may be unpredictable
- High-dose iodine products marketed for thyroid or breast health
- Iodine stacked across a multi, a prenatal, a thyroid formula, and seaweed snacks
Check with a provider
- Hashimoto's, Graves', or thyroid nodules. Extra iodine can trigger or worsen thyroid autoimmunity and can push thyroid levels too low or too high in susceptible people.
- Taking thyroid medicine, antithyroid medicine (such as methimazole), amiodarone, or lithium
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding. Iodine is important, but ask how much your prenatal should contain.
- Signs of too much: new thyroid symptoms, a metallic taste, acne-like rash, or swelling in the neck
Supplements that contain it
Brand nameProduct namePrenatalsComing soon
Brand nameProduct nameMultivitaminsComing soon
Brand nameProduct nameThyroid support formulasComing soon
Brand nameProduct namePrenatalsComing soon
Brand nameProduct nameMultivitaminsComing soon
Brand nameProduct nameThyroid support formulasComing soon
Parts of the body it affects
Explore what each area does and the conditions that can affect it.
Illustrations: Servier Medical Art, CC BY 4.0
Wondering if your symptoms fit a pattern?
Dr. Lesher is a naturopathic doctor who specializes in women's autoimmune and chronic conditions. Since 2020, she has helped more than 900 patients overcome and heal from their conditions.