Vitamin & Mineral · Mineral

Iodine

Provisional Moderate Scoremineral

Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia

Published March 15, 2026Last updated March 15, 2026Methodology · Editorial policy · Report an error

Evidence review status: unreviewed

Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.

Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION

Provisional Summary

Iodine is an essential micronutrient crucial for the synthesis of thyroid hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones, formed from iodide by thyroid peroxidase, orchestrate metabolic rate, growth, and neurological development.

—

Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryVitamin & Mineral

GroupMineral

Public Score StatusProvisional Moderate

Primary KeywordIodine supplement

Iodine close-up macro showing natural texture and detail — rich in hypotensive, hormonal/estrogenic, thyroid-active

Iodine — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Supports Thyroid Health

Crucial for the production of thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), regulating metabolism, thermogenesis, and systemic growth.

Modulates Metabolic Regulation

Influences energy expenditure, lipid metabolism, and temperature control through its impact on thyroid hormone output.

Aids Cognitive Development

Supports brain formation and neural connectivity, especially during fetal and infant stages, preventing developmental delays.

Enhances Immune Function

Contributes to innate immunity and the body's antimicrobial defense, particularly in mucosal tissues.

Facilitates Hormonal Harmony

Stabilizes thyroid function, influencing reproductive and adrenal systems to promote overall endocrine balance.

Prevents Deficiency Symptoms

Adequate intake prevents goiter, hypothyroidism, cognitive impairment, and fatigue, especially critical during pregnancy for fetal brain development.

Origin & History

Natural habitat

Iodine is a vital trace mineral essential for the synthesis of thyroid hormones, which orchestrate metabolic rate, growth, and neurological development. Revered for its foundational role in endocrine balance, cognitive formation, and cellular energy regulation, iodine is particularly critical during prenatal and early life stages.

“The critical role of iodine in human health was recognized in the early 19th century with its discovery and subsequent use in treating goiter. Large-scale public health initiatives, such as the iodization of salt, began in the early 20th century to combat widespread iodine deficiency, particularly in landlocked regions. This modern intervention has significantly reduced the incidence of iodine deficiency disorders globally, making it a cornerstone of preventative nutrition.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Extensive scientific research, including epidemiological studies and clinical trials, firmly establishes iodine's essential role in thyroid hormone synthesis and its profound impact on metabolic rate, growth, and neurological development. Studies consistently demonstrate that adequate iodine intake is crucial for preventing goiter and hypothyroidism, particularly highlighting its critical importance for fetal brain development during pregnancy. The evidence base is robust, supporting its status as a vital trace mineral.

Preparation & Dosage

Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.

Nutritional Profile

- Key Bioactive: Iodide (I-), the form absorbed and utilized by the thyroid gland. - Food Sources: Seaweed (kelp, nori, wakame), iodized salt, cod, dairy, eggs, and fortified grains. - Absorption Factors: Enhanced by selenium and tyrosine; potentially reduced by goitrogens in excessive raw cruciferous vegetable intake.

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

Iodide is actively transported into thyroid cells via the sodium/iodide cotransporter, then oxidized by thyroid peroxidase (TPO). This oxidized iodine is incorporated into tyrosine residues within thyroglobulin, leading to the synthesis of thyroid hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3).

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Extensive research, including epidemiological studies and clinical trials, firmly establishes iodine's critical role in human health. These studies consistently demonstrate that adequate iodine intake is essential for thyroid hormone synthesis, impacting metabolic rate, growth, and neurological development. Clinical findings highlight that both iodine deficiency and excess can lead to thyroid dysfunction, underscoring the importance of optimal intake for maintaining euthyroid status.

Also Known As

IodineElemental IodineIodide

Browse All Ingredients More Mineral About the Encyclopedia

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

From the Hermetica Research Desk

Research updates — and 25% off your first order

Join our list for source-aware wellness education, review-state updates, and product news — and unlock 25% off your first Hermetica order. Educational content is not medical advice. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

Educational content only — not medical advice.