Top Iodine Supplement Picks: Advantages and Applications
In the realm of health supplements, iodine stands out as an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in our bodies. Here's a rundown of some iodine supplement brands, their forms, and their benefits, as well as some important facts about iodine consumption.
Iodine is a mineral that our bodies do not naturally produce, making supplementation necessary. One brand that offers iodine supplements is Thorne Iodine and Tyrosine, designed to help combat fatigue. This supplement comes in capsule form, with each capsule containing 225 mcg of iodine, and is suitable for vegans, free from gluten, soy, and dairy.
Another option is the Swanson Vitamins Triple Iodine Complex, which contains three forms of iodine. The Now Kelp Powder is another vegan-friendly and gluten-free option, coming in powder form. Pure Encapsulations also offers a vegan-friendly and gluten-free iodine supplement in capsule form.
For those looking for a multivitamin with a dose of iodine, SmartyPants Organic Kids Multivitamin could be a suitable choice. It's important to note that iodine is essential for creating and maintaining thyroid hormones, which are crucial for metabolism.
Symptoms of an iodine deficiency can include weight gain, lethargy, weakness, cold intolerance, dry skin, hair loss, menstruation changes, and slow heart rate. A 2020 research review found that people following a vegan diet are at risk of having a low iodine level.
Iodine supplements should be taken with caution to avoid side effects such as diarrhea, burning mouth or throat, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and fever. The upper limit for iodine intake varies by age, with children having lower limits than adults. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) provides a table detailing the upper limits for each age group.
Pregnant and lactating women require an increased iodine intake (recommended intake, not UL) of about 250 mcg per day to support thyroid hormone metabolism. The NIH sets upper intake limits (ULs) for iodine that vary by age group as follows:
- Infants 0–12 months: 110 to 130 micrograms (mcg) per day
- Children 1–8 years: 200 mcg per day
- Children 9–13 years: 300 mcg per day
- Adolescents 14–18 years: 900 mcg per day
- Adults 19 years and older: 1,100 mcg (1.1 mg) per day
- Pregnant women: 1,100 mcg per day
- Lactating women: 1,100 mcg per day
These ULs indicate the maximum daily intake unlikely to cause adverse health effects in the general population. It's crucial to consult a doctor before taking iodine supplements, as too much iodine can cause side effects and complications.
Other brands include Mary Ruth's Nascent Iodine Liquid Drops, Optimox Iodoral (which may not be vegan-friendly), and Peak Performance Raw Whole Food Iodine. Iodine is found in some foods such as iodized salt, fish, dairy products, eggs, and some vegetables. However, those following a vegan diet may find it challenging to meet their iodine needs through diet alone.
In conclusion, iodine supplements can provide the most benefit to pregnant people and those who do not get enough iodine from their diet. It's essential to consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen and to adhere to the recommended upper intake limits to maintain a balanced diet and avoid potential side effects.
- The Thorne Iodine and Tyrosine, designed to combat fatigue, is suitable for vegans and free from gluten, soy, and dairy, belonging to the realm of health-and-wellness supplements.
- The research review in 2020 found that people following a vegan diet are at risk of having a low iodine level, which could potentially be combated using iodine supplements, such as those mentioned above.
- Pregnant and lactating women require an increased iodine intake and should consider iodine supplements like Thorne Iodine and Tyrosine (225 mcg per capsule) or Pure Encapsulations (vegan-friendly and gluten-free iodine supplement in capsule form) to support thyroid hormone metabolism.
- It's crucial to consult a doctor before taking iodine supplements, as they should be taken with caution to avoid side effects, and adhere to the NIH-provided upper intake limits, especially for children and pregnant women.
