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Is Taking Iodine Supplements,safe?

Posted on Sat, 5 Apr 2014

Question: I recently read the book iodine by Dr Brown stein and was convinced that I was low. When I saw my acupuncturist she agreed that everybody is low and that she takes iodoral. She gave me a bottle and I started taking 12.5mg each day. I have hypothyroid , osteoporosis, and bipolar. I take 65mg of nature-thyroid each day. my question is supplementing iodine is dangerous and what side effects I might expect if I'm not deficient.

Answered by Dr. T Shobha Deepak (3 hours later)

Brief Answer: Depends on cause of Hypothyroidism Detailed Answer: Hi Welcome to Healthcare-Magic Greetings of the day Dear Ms Human body is very fascinating and has its own inbuilt mechanism. When there is Iodine deficiency, the amount of absorption of Iodine from gastrointestinal tract increases. When excessive Iodine is given, amount of absorption decreases once stores of Iodine is replenished. Very rarely does Excessive consumption of Iodine causes Hyperthyroidism. As you are presently having Hypothyroidism, it's less likely you will have Hyperthyroidism. It all depends on what is the cause of Hypothyroidism in your case. I would also suggest you to get Serum Iodine level for confirmation of low level. Do get back to me if you need any further assistance, will be glad to assist you. Take care Best Regards Dr T Shobha Deepak MBBS, MD

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. T Shobha Deepak (3 hours later)

should I see a specialist to determine why I am hypothyroid? I was told it was just a part of aging. maybe its a deficiency and I would be healthier to find out. are there side effects from too much iodine like diarrhea ,sensitivity to light, or sound. acne. anything? maybe the excess is just excreted?

Answered by Dr. T Shobha Deepak (3 hours later)

Brief Answer: Reassessment by Endocrinologist Detailed Answer: Hi Dear Madam You should definitely see an Endocrinologist to assess the status of thyroid. Aging will not affect thyroid hormone, hypothyroidism is usually either due to deficiency of Iodine or local pathology in Thyroid like Auto-immune or inflammatory reaction. Hyperthyroidism usually causes diarrhea as manifestation. Potassium Iodide is free from potential side effects. You definitely require thorough reassessment by Endocrinologist. Take Care Best regards Dr T Shobha Deepak

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar