Iodine
Mineral
Also known as: I, Iodide, Potassium iodide, Sodium iodide, Iodine (Thyroid Support)
A
Grade A💊 150-300mcg daily🎯 7 primary uses🔗 2 synergies⚠️ Review warnings
Levels upNutrition+50 pts
Overview
Essential trace mineral for thyroid hormone production. Critical for metabolism, brain development, and energy.
Primary Uses
Thyroid hormone synthesisIodine deficiencyGoiter preventionThyroid hormone productionMetabolismBrain developmentEnergy
Frequently Asked About Iodine
How much Iodine should I take?
The typical effective range is 150-300 mcg. Individual needs vary based on age, body weight, diet, and goals — start at the lower end and adjust based on response. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting a new supplement.
When is the best time to take Iodine?
Any time. Consistency matters more than perfect timing — pick a daily anchor (e.g. with breakfast or before bed) and stick with it.
Should I take Iodine with food?
Optional.
Does Iodine interact with medications?
Yes — known interactions include Thyroid medications. If you take any prescription medication, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting Iodine.
What does Iodine pair well with?
Iodine stacks well with Selenium and Tyrosine — these combinations either improve absorption or work synergistically toward common goals.
Who should not take Iodine?
Iodine should be avoided or used with caution by people with Thyroid disorders without guidance. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use.
What are the side effects of Iodine?
Most people tolerate Iodine well. The most commonly reported side effects are Usually well tolerated. Side effects are usually dose-dependent — lowering the dose often resolves them.
Dosage
Typical range
150-300mcg daily
Timing
Any time
With food
Optional
Dose Tiers
RDA / DV
150 mcg
Moderate
150-300 mcg
Upper Limit
1,100 mcg
Duration
Long-term at RDA
Special Populations
Pregnancy requires more
Research & Studies
Search the literature now
We haven’t curated landmark studies for Iodineyet — one-click into the primary literature here. PubMed (RCTs) is usually the highest-signal starting point.
Mechanism of Action
- • Component of T3 and T4 thyroid hormones
- • Required for thyroid function
- • Supports metabolic rate
Evidence Quality
Evidence Grade A
Essential for thyroid function
Safety & Contraindications
Serious Warnings
- • Excess can affect thyroid
Contraindications
- • Thyroid disorders without guidance
Common Side Effects
- • Usually well tolerated
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Essential
Liver & Kidney Notes
Safe
Interactions
💊 Medications
- • Thyroid medications
🧪 Supplements
- • Part of thyroid support
🍽️ Food & Alcohol
- • Seafood, iodized salt
Stacking & Synergies
Pairs Well With
Avoid Combining With
None at normal doses
Best Goal Synergies
Thyroid support
Buying Guide
What to Look For
- • Appropriate dose
Standardization Markers
mcg stated
Adulteration risk
Low
Practical Notes
- • Not too little, not too much
- • Selenium is protective partner
- • Test levels before high-dosing
- • RDA usually sufficient
- • Test thyroid if supplementing high doses
Tags
thyroidmineralessentialhormonemetabolism
Top Products with Iodine
Highest-scored catalog products containing Iodine, ranked by our scoring engine.
Thyroid Health Complex (formerly Thyrocsin)Thorne94
Basic Nutrients 2/DayThorne93
Basic PrenatalThorne93
Men's Multi 50+Thorne93
Related Guides
In-depth guides covering Iodine — protocols, comparisons, and use cases.
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Trace mineral supporting bone health, cognitive function, and hormone metabolism. May support testosterone in deficient states.
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Essential mineral for bone health, muscle function, nerve signaling, and blood clotting.
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Common, economical calcium form with highest elemental calcium percentage. Requires stomach acid for absorption.
Calcium Citrate
Well-absorbed calcium form that doesn't require stomach acid. Better for those on acid-reducing medications.
Chloride
Essential electrolyte mineral that works with sodium and potassium to maintain fluid balance, nerve transmission, and stomach acid production.
Chromium Picolinate
Trace mineral for insulin sensitivity and blood sugar regulation. Popular for carb cravings.
Last reviewed: June 2026 by the Formulate Research Team. Sources cited above; methodology and scoring criteria published here.
Cite this page
Formulate Research Team. (2026, June). Iodine — Evidence-Based Supplement Guide. Formulate Supplement Encyclopedia. https://app.formulate-health.app/learning/supplements/iodine
Educational content based on published research and our scoring methodology. Not medical advice — consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing supplements, especially if you take medications, are pregnant, or have a medical condition.