Iodine Supplement Benefits and Dosage

Iodine function

Thyroid hormones - Maintenance of metabolism - Cognitive function

Iodine dosage

The Nutrient Reference Value (NRV) for iodine is 150mcg per day.

Iodine and the brain

Brain scans in people with iodine deficiency have shown that structures within the brain such as the hippocampus and neurotransmitters (chemicals in the brain) are affected by iodine deficiency. It’s widely recognised that iodine contributes to normal cognitive function; the exact mechanism is unclear, but it’s thought to be related to gene expression.

Iodine benefits

• Iodine helps to make thyroid hormones, which control our metabolic rate

• Essential for optimal fertility

Plays well with

• Selenium for thyroid function

• Folate for women trying to conceive

• B12 and other B vitamins for those on plant-based diets

Clever stuff - Low iodine in child development

Iodine is especially important in foetal and childhood development, as it is essential for thyroid hormone synthesis, which is important in normal brain development. A trial of 310 mildly deficient school children found that iodine supplementation in people who have low levels improved information processing, fine motor skills and problem solving.

About the author:

Sophie Medlin