Iodine
Also known as: potassium iodide, sodium iodide, iodide, iodized salt, povidone-iodine, radioactive iodine (I-131), kelp iodine
Effective Dosage
No established dose from provided studies for dietary supplementation
What the Science Says
Iodine is an essential dietary mineral that the body requires primarily for thyroid hormone production. The provided studies examined iodine in specific contexts: as a component of fortified foods (bouillon cubes, iodized salt) to address deficiencies in low-income populations, as a topical antiseptic (povidone-iodine) to prevent perianal infections in chemotherapy patients, and as an oral supplement in a small COVID-19 trial where it did not reduce mortality or ICU admissions but was associated with shorter ICU stays. Fortification of salt with iodine appears safe and does not impair iodine status when combined with folic acid.
What It Doesn't Do
Won't treat or prevent COVID-19 — the one trial found no reduction in deaths or ICU admissions. Not proven to boost immunity in healthy people based on these studies. Iodine in contrast agents (used in CT scans) is a completely different medical use — not a supplement benefit. No evidence from these papers that iodine supplements improve energy, metabolism, or weight loss.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Iodine is an essential mineral crucial for the synthesis of thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism, growth, and development. Adequate iodine intake is vital for maintaining healthy thyroid function and preventing conditions such as goiter and hypothyroidism.
Strong EvidenceEffective at: 150-290 mcg daily
Source: auto-research
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown from provided studies — no pharmacokinetic data on dietary iodine absorption was reported in the papers provided.
Red Flags to Watch For
- High-dose iodine (as used in radioactive iodine therapy) can damage thyroid tissue — this is a medical procedure, not a supplement benefit
- Iodine contrast agents used in CT scans were associated with acute kidney injury at higher concentrations in one study — not relevant to dietary supplements but highlights iodine's dose-dependent toxicity
- Povidone-iodine sitz baths at higher concentrations (1:50 dilution) caused more adverse skin events than lower concentrations — topical iodine is not risk-free
- Oral iodine at 12.5 mg/day (far above typical dietary intake) was used in a COVID-19 trial with no significant benefit on primary outcomes — high-dose supplementation is not supported
- Iodine excess can suppress or overstimulate thyroid function; people with thyroid conditions should consult a doctor before supplementing
Products Containing Iodine
See how Iodine is used in these analyzed products:
Navitas Organics Superfood+ Digestive Blend
Supplement
Augustinus Bader The Hair Revitalizing Complex
Supplement
Eu Natural Prenatal Glow
Supplement
Snap Supplements Irish Sea Moss
Supplement
IM8 Daily Ultimate Essentials Pro
Supplement
Supergreen Tonik (Berry)
Supplement
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-04-08