Iodine Supplements: The Four Best Kinds to Use
Iodine is essential for a vibrant and radiant body. It's important to the body in many ways, including supporting immune system function, metabolism, and even cardiovascular health.[1] Furthermore, it's estimated that more than half of the U.S. population suffers from insufficient levels of iodine. Iodine is a major contributor to the function of your thyroid gland,[2] especially in the creation of T3 and T4 hormones,[3] which are important for regulating metabolism.[4] Let's look at some of the iodine supplements on the market and how they compare.
1. Nascent Iodine
Nascent iodine, also called transformative nano-colloidal detoxified iodine, is a consumable form of iodine that holds an electromagnetic charge. It allows for a larger release of energy once consumed and is very similar to the precursor form of iodine that is converted into the thyroid hormones. Because of this, your body can easily recognize and assimilate it. Its unique structure and form allow it to travel through the body more quickly and easily than any other iodine supplement. Also, unlike many liquid iodine supplements, it contains no alcohol. Nascent iodine is the best form for supplementation. I recommend Detoxadine®, an extremely pure, deep-earth sourced, certified-organic nascent iodine. Each drop contains 650 mcg of iodine.
2. Lugol's Solution Iodine
Also called "strong iodine solution," Lugol's contains 6.3 mg of molecular iodine/iodide per drop. The formula is 85 percent distilled water, 10 percent potassium iodide, and 5 percent elemental iodine. Lugol's may increase respiratory tract secretions. It can reduce the vascularity or blood flow to the thyroid and inhibit unwanted thyroid hormone secretion. People also use it often as a topical antiseptic, as iodine resists harmful organisms.
3. Povidone-Iodine
Povidone-iodine is typically used on the skin (topically) for wounds to prevent infection or eliminate harmful organisms. You'll often find it in first aid kits and in surgical settings, though it is not common as a supplement. Not many people take povidone-iodine orally, but a few use it as an antiseptic mouthwash. As a bonus, it may even promote normal cholesterol, particularly the LDL or "bad" variety.[5]
4. Potassium Iodide
Potassium iodide is typically available in tablets, with servings ranging from 0.23 to 130 mg. This closely-bound inorganic form of iodine is only about 20 percent assimilated into the body. Studies show that potassium iodide blocks the uptake of radioactive iodine in the thyroid gland, thus lowering the chances of developing thyroid cancer, particularly after radiation exposure.[6] Moreover, potassium iodide is used in emergency treatments for hyperthyroidism.[7]
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References (7)
- Miller DW. Iodine for Health. Lew Rockwell. 2006 August 14.
- Nussey S, Whitehead S. The thyroid gland. Ch 3 In Endocrinology: An Integrated Approach. 2001.
- Sircus M. Iodine Bringing Back the Universal Medicine. Print.
- How does the thyroid work? - InformedHealth.org. National Library of Medicine. Updated 19 Apr 2018. Accessed 19 Jul 2019.
- Study Finds New Iodine Mouthwash May Impact LDL Cholesterol. [press release]. Business Week. 22 Apr. 2013. Accessed 19 Jul 2019.
- Iodine: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. Office of Dietary Supplements, National Institutes of Health.
- United States Department of Health and Human Services. Potassium Iodide as a thyroid blocking agent in radiation emergencies (PDF). Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. Published Dec 2001. Accessed 19 Jul 2019.
†Results may vary. Information and statements made are for education purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician.
Dr. Edward Group, DC
FOUNDER | HEALER | ADVOCATEDr. Group, DC is a healer and alternative health advocate, and an industry leader and innovator in the field of natural health who is dedicated to helping others. He is a registered doctor of chiropractic (DC), a naturopathic practitioner (NP), and proud alum of Harvard Business School and MIT Sloan School of Management. Dr. Group, DC is the founder of Global Healing – a mission and vision he has shared through best-selling books and frequent media appearances. He aims to spread his message of positivity, hope, and wellness throughout the world.
