Meta Information

ID:iodine

Name:Iodine

Schema Version:1.5

Alternate Names

• Potassium Iodide
• Lugol's Solution

Intervention Type

therapeutic_agent

Expected Cost Mean

Low Cost:

5

High Cost:

20

Cost Type:

monthly

Description:

Widely available and very inexpensive over-the-counter supplement.

Summary

Iodine is an essential trace mineral required for the synthesis of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4). These hormones are master regulators of systemic metabolism, impacting everything from body temperature and heart rate to cellular energy production. Maintaining iodine sufficiency is therefore foundational for metabolic health and cognitive function, but there is no evidence that supra-physiological doses extend healthspan.

Purpose

Essential mineral for thyroid hormone production and metabolic regulation.

Card Summary

An essential mineral required for synthesizing thyroid hormones, which are critical for regulating metabolism, growth, and cognitive function throughout the lifespan.

Drug Class

Drugs In Class

Empty Array

Impact

Score:

5.5

Justification:

Crucial for preventing deficiency-related thyroid dysfunction, but no evidence for supra-physiological dosing benefits.

Evidence

Grade:

A

Score:

9.5

Justification:

Vast, conclusive human evidence confirms its essential role in thyroid function and metabolism.

Safety

Score:

3.8

Justification:

Very safe at RDA levels, but chronic excess can cause significant thyroid dysfunction.

Flags

• Excess iodine intake can induce or worsen both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.
• Individuals with autoimmune thyroid conditions (e.g., Hashimoto's) can be highly sensitive to iodine.
• May interact with anti-thyroid medications, ACE inhibitors, and potassium-sparing diuretics.
• Testing urinary iodine concentration is advisable before considering supplementation beyond the RDA.

Verdict

Ensure sufficiency via diet or RDA-level supplement; avoid unproven high doses.

Created

2026-04-26T17:37:14.502347Z

Model

Gemini 3.1 Pro (High)

Delivery

Route:

oral

Scope:

• systemic

Indication

Focus:

healthspan

Description:

Iodine is an essential trace mineral required for the synthesis of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4). These hormones are master regulators of systemic metabolism, impacting everything from body temperature...

Typical Protocol

• Supplement with 150-250 mcg daily, often as potassium iodide, to meet or slightly exceed the RDA.
• Ensure adequate intake through iodized salt or iodine-rich foods like seaweed and seafood.