Iodine Supplements in the Treatment of Hypothyroidism
If iodine deficiency isn’t the cause of hypothyroidism, then iodine supplements provide no benefit. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, also known as chronic autoimmune hypothyroidism, is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in the United States and is not caused by iodine deficiency. More than adequate or excessive iodine intake may lead to iodine-induced hypothyroidism, autoimmune thyroiditis and may increase the severity of existing autoimmune thyroiditis especially for susceptible populations with recurring thyroid disease, the elderly, fetuses, and neonates. Therefore, if there is anybody who shouldn’t take iodine, it is thyroid patients.