Minerals
Iodine
Also called: potassium iodide, kelp iodine
A mineral needed to make thyroid hormone.
- Why people take it
- Thyroid health, pregnancy.
- What the evidence says
- Iodised salt prevents deficiency for most people. Pregnant and breastfeeding women need more.
- How it is usually taken
- Usually 150 mcg a day (250 mcg in pregnancy and breastfeeding); iodised salt covers most needs in India. Kelp products can contain far more.
- Be careful
- Too much can cause or worsen thyroid problems. Kelp products can contain very high amounts.
- Medicines it can interact with
- Can interfere with thyroid medicines (levothyroxine, carbimazole), lithium and amiodarone; potassium iodide with potassium-sparing diuretics raises potassium.
Other minerals
Common questions
What is Iodine?
A mineral needed to make thyroid hormone.
Why do people take Iodine?
Thyroid health, pregnancy.
Does Iodine work?
Iodised salt prevents deficiency for most people. Pregnant and breastfeeding women need more.
How much Iodine do people take?
Usually 150 mcg a day (250 mcg in pregnancy and breastfeeding); iodised salt covers most needs in India. Kelp products can contain far more.
Is Iodine safe?
Too much can cause or worsen thyroid problems. Kelp products can contain very high amounts.
Does Iodine interact with medicines?
Can interfere with thyroid medicines (levothyroxine, carbimazole), lithium and amiodarone; potassium iodide with potassium-sparing diuretics raises potassium.
Sources and further reading
Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.
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