The best iodine pills help stabilize your body’s iodine levels, resulting in a healthy thyroid gland, a regulated metabolism, and increased energy. Iodine is an essential chemical element that our bodies need, but cannot make. We must consume iodine in our diet in order to have enough, but, for some people, food alone is not a sufficient source of this nutrient. That’s where iodine pills can save the day.
We looked at dozens of iodine pills and have identified the best to help you meet your nutritional needs. As we reviewed all of the iodine pills we came across we considered factors such as ingredient purity, dosage per capsule or tablet, and ingredient sourcing to choose our top picks. Then we put together a detailed list of many more great iodine pills to provide you with a wealth of quality options to choose from.
After considering many different iodine pills, we have chosen Standard Process Prolamine Iodine as our overall top pick. The iodine is sourced from proteins within the corn grown on the company’s own certified organic farm in Wisconsin.
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The 5 Top-Rated Iodine Pills
| Editor’s Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Iodine Pill Overall | Standard Process Prolamine Iodine | 4.8 |
| Best Iodine Complex Pill | Terry Naturally Tri-Iodine | 4.6 |
| Best Budget Iodine Pill | Swanson Kelp Iodine | 4.8 |
| Best Kelp-Derived Iodine Pill | Oregon’s Wild Harvest Kelp and Iodine Capsules | 4.6 |
| Best Iodine Pill for Thyroid Health | Nobi Nutrition Thyroid Support with Iodine | 4.4 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Iodine Pill Overall: Standard Process Prolamine Iodine
Comprised of completely pure, identifiable, and traceable ingredients, Standard Process Prolamine Iodine is the most transparent of all the iodine pills we examined. Every tablet of this product contains 600mcg of promaline iodine which is harvested from the proteins of the organic corn the company grows on their own farm in Wisconsin, USA. The promaline iodine is a 2:1 solution of potassium iodide to iodine, forming a chemical compound that creates stable bonds with the protein and starch in the cornmeal.
This Wisconsin-based family-owned company has been creating health supplements for three generations since 1929. The 623-acre organic family farm yields over 80% of the ingredients the company uses in its products, including the entirety of the promaline iodine in this supplement. The result is a clearly traceable, vegan-friendly, gluten-free, and organic iodine pill that will support your thyroid and metabolic health.
As these are tablets, rather than capsules, they can be easily broken into smaller portions or crushed into a powder so that you can customize and modulate your iodine intake levels. There’s no better iodine supplement on the market.
Standard Process Prolamine Iodine Key Features:
- Contains 600mcg of promaline iodine per tablet
- Iodine is sourced from organic corn proteins
- Vegan, gluten free, and organic
- Grown and manufactured in the USA
Best Iodine Complex Pill: Terry Naturally Tri-Iodine
Get the most well-rounded iodine supplementation possible with the Terry Naturally Tri-Iodine dietary supplement. These capsules are jam-packed with 12,500mcg of iodine. That iodine is comprised of three forms, those being: 6060mcg of potassium iodide, 6060mcg of sodium iodide, and 380mcg of molecular iodine which has been sourced from sea kelp. This supplement is the most complete form of iodine available in pill form.
Terry Naturally states that the potassium and sodium iodides support hormone balance and immune health by triggering the production of hormones in the thyroid gland, and the company says that the molecular iodine promotes colon, breast, prostate, and cellular health. Past customers overwhelmingly agree that they have seen positive outcomes, including improved thyroid health and increased energy, as a result of taking this supplement.
This triple iodine complex supports multiple body systems by providing the trace nutrients your body cannot make on its own. There are 90 servings per bottle, and each capsule is certified vegan, kosher, and is made from non-GMO ingredients.
Terry Naturally Tri-Iodine Key Features:
- Contains 12,500mcg of iodine per capsule
- A mix of potassium iodide, sodium iodide, and molecular iodine
- Vegan, kosher, gluten-free, and non-GMO
- 90 capsules per bottle
Best Budget Iodine Pill: Swanson Kelp Iodine
Swanson Kelp Iodine is a purely kelp-derived iodine supplement that is available at pennies on the dollar compared to many of the more premium-priced options out on the market. If you simply need a quality source of iodine and don’t have any dietary concerns, this is your best option. It is surely the best value iodine pill we have seen. The downside is that it is not organic nor vegan-friendly like some of the competition, but if that is not a concern for you then this is a fantastic choice.
By harvesting the entire kelp plant, Swanson is able to secure the rich nutrients that are stored within the nutritionally-dense plant. The total tablet composition includes 225mcg of iodine and 56mg of Atlantic kelp. While this harvesting method does contribute diversity to the nutrient makeup of the pill, it also has likely mixed in some shellfish along with the harvested plants, making it so that this cannot be labeled a vegan product.
It is an all-natural plant-based product, however, and it is manufactured in a Good Manufacturing Practices certified facility that has been approved by the FDA. Swanson even takes the extra step to have their products lab-tested by a third party for ingredient purity, potency, and safety.
Swanson Kelp Iodine Key Features:
- Contains 225mcg of kelp-derived iodine per tablet
- Kelp harvested in the Northern Atlantic
- May contain shellfish
- 250 tablets per bottle
Best Kelp-Derived Iodine Pill: Oregon’s Wild Harvest Kelp and Iodine Capsules
Some things are best kept simple. Oregon’s Wild Harvest Kelp and Iodine Capsules are comprised of two ingredients in all, totaling everything inside and out. Inside, the sole ingredient is 600mg of organic kelp that has been harvested off the coast of Nova Scotia. This kelp supplies the 400mcg of iodine that is held within each capsule. Outside, the capsule itself is made of 100% non-GMO bovine gelatin. That’s all there is to it.
Also included, though not listed, are all of the nutritional elements found in naturally grown, responsibly harvested, organic kelp. The simple makeup of this product lends it to be certified non-GMO, gluten-free, dairy-free, and soy-free. The supplement is tested and certified by a third-party lab, and it is manufactured in Redmond, Oregon. There are 90 capsules per bottle and each capsule provides a full day’s worth of iodine for most people.
Oregon’s Wild Harvest Kelp and Iodine Capsules Key Features:
- Contains 400mcg of kelp-derived iodine per capsule
- Contains 600mg of organic kelp thallus
- Harvested off the coast of Nova Scotia
- Manufactured in Oregon, USA
Best Iodine Pill for Thyroid Health: Nobi Nutrition Thyroid Support with Iodine
While keeping it simple is the right course of action for some, others prefer a multi-pronged approach. The Nobi Nutrition Thyroid Supplement with Iodine combines 14 medicinal ingredients into one thyroid-supporting capsule for those who want to support the health of their thyroid, and entire body, with as many tools as possible. The 150mcg of kelp-derived iodine per capsule is the star of the show, and the other nutritional elements are the supporting cast.
First and foremost, this dietary supplement is designed with the intent of improving thyroid function and balancing your body’s hormones. This is where the iodine nabs the spotlight, as it does with all of the products on this list. But Nobi Nutrition takes the support one step further by utilizing nutrients like vitamin B12, ashwagandha root, zinc, and magnesium to increase your energy levels and improve your mental focus and clarity. All of this works together to make you feel good again.
The ingredients in this formula strengthen your thyroid by providing the trace elements it needs to function properly, and they support the thyroid by enhancing your body’s ability to take action when the thyroid is once again at an efficient operating level. This product comes backed by a 60-day money-back satisfaction guarantee.
Nobi Nutrition Thyroid Support with Iodine Key Features:
- Contains 150mcg of kelp-derived iodine
- Combines 14 vitamins, minerals, and herbal ingredients
- 60-day money-back guarantee
- 60 capsules per bottle
Who Should Buy Iodine Pills
You should buy iodine pills if you are deficient in iodine. Your doctor may recommend iodine pill supplementation if you have an overactive thyroid, a goiter, a tumor, if you are pregnant or nursing, if you have breast pain, or if you are exposed to radiation.
A proper blood test conducted in a professional laboratory will help you and your doctor determine if your body is low on iodine. Many multivitamins, such as those multivitamins we reviewed for men and for women, contain iodine as a part of their formula and may contain all of the supplemental iodine you need.
Important Features to Consider
There are a few important considerations to think through before purchasing iodine pills.
- Dosage. Below we have covered the typical dosage recommendations for iodine supplementation in individuals who are deficient in iodine, pregnant and lactating women, and those with serious conditions. You must be sure to take the appropriate amount of iodine in order to not overdose and damage your body. Speak with your doctor before beginning an iodine regimen so that you can be sure of the amount you should be taking.
- Potassium iodide vs iodine vs sodium iodide. Iodine is a chemical element, whereas potassium iodide and sodium iodide are chemical compounds containing iodine. You may see supplements that simply state that they contain iodine when they in fact are comprised of one of the two chemical compounds. Potassium iodide is the most common form of consumable iodine that is used in nutritional supplements and thyroid health products, but all types may be used to prevent iodine deficiency.
- Usage. Are you deficient in iodine? Do you expect to be deficient because you are nursing a newborn child? Do you have a goiter? These are all reasons why you may want to take an iodine supplement, but the dosage, length of regular use, and frequency may vary depending upon the intended purpose.
- Interactions. Be sure not to overlap iodine supplements with foods that are naturally high in iodine or artificially enhanced with iodine such as iodized salt. Too much iodine can have serious side effects. Iodine can cause complications when taken in conjunction with other medications or supplements such as thyroid medication, lithium, and high blood pressure medication. Consult with your doctor before starting an iodine regimen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are iodine pills used for?
Iodine is a chemical element that our bodies need, but cannot make, and so we must get it from our diet. Iodine pills can be used to supplement your diet to make sure you are getting enough iodine. Iodine, specifically potassium iodide, is also used during radiation emergencies to protect the thyroid gland against radioactive iodides.
How much iodine do I need daily?
Most people need approximately 20 to 40mg of iodine per day in order to not become deficient in iodine. Pregnant and lactating women are recommended to consume anywhere from 250mcg daily to a single 400mg dose of iodine and should consult with a doctor before doing so. In other serious situations, such as radiation exposure, swollen thyroid gland, and breast pain, the suggested amount can be quite high, up to 6000mcg per day in some cases, but, again, be sure to consult with your doctor before beginning an iodine regimen for any reason.
Is taking iodine supplements safe?
Taking iodine supplements is safe for those who need it and follow the amount recommended by their doctor. Prolonged use of high doses can be unsafe, resulting in symptoms like stomach pain, diarrhea, hives, and even death.
What are the symptoms of low iodine?
One of the most noticeable symptoms of an iodine deficiency is a swollen thyroid gland, or a goiter, resulting in a swollen neck below the chin. Low iodine levels can also cause women to stop ovulating, cause infertility, high blood pressure, and thyroid cancer.
Other Iodine Pills We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other iodine pills. Even though they didn’t make our five best iodine pill list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for bolstering your body’s iodine levels. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- Iodine Pills
- Iodine Complex Pills
- Iodine Pills for Thyroid Health
- Kelp-Derived Iodine Pills
- Budget Iodine Pills
Iodine Pills
These IOSAT potassium iodide tablets have been approved by the FDA as an effective method of protecting the thyroid from radioactive iodine. These tablets are made at full 130mg strength in accordance with FDA guidelines for total thyroid blocking.
Key Features:
- Potassium iodide tablets
- 130mg per tablet
- 42 tablets included
Cost: $25
Performance Supplement Potassium Iodide
The Performance Supplement Potassium Iodide is a thyroid protecting supplement that is portioned out in half doses of thyroid-blocking power per capsule. Adults should take two capsules per serving for radiation treatment, and children should only take one capsule per serving.
Key Features:
- Potassium iodide capsules
- 65mg per capsule
- 60 capsules included
Cost: $17
The small dosage present in the Pure Encapsulations Iodine pills is meant to support the formation of thyroid hormones to promote metabolic function. By supporting thyroid health, this iodine supplement enhances mitochondrial activity and enzyme synthesis in muscle, the liver, and other organs.
Key Features:
- Potassium iodide capsules
- 225mcg per capsule
- 120 capsules included
Cost: $15
Relentless Improvement Potassium Iodide
Every bottle of Relentless Improvement Potassium Iodide is tested at a USA-based third-party laboratory for purity and safety of its ingredients. The tablets are small and contain a moderate dose amount of iodide to support a healthy thyroid.
Key Features:
- Potassium iodide tablets
- 16.75mg per tablet
- 180 tablets included
Iodine Complex Pills
Adaptogen Research Iodine Complex
Adaptogen Research Iodine Complex is a high-potency complex of 7.5mg potassium iodide and 5mg molecular iodine per capsules. This mix supports thyroid health on two fronts by making sure you get the proper amount of total iodine your body needs.
Key Features:
- Potassium iodide and molecular iodine
- 12.5mg per capsule
- 90 capsules included
Cost: $19
Klaire Labs has been developing health products in cooperation with physicians since 1969. This iodine complex promotes the production of thyroid hormones T3 and T4, and it supplements the other organs in the body that need iodine as well.
Key Features:
- Potassium iodide and molecular iodine
- 12.5mg per capsule
- 90 capsules included
Cost: $27
Maintain a healthy metabolism, high energy levels, overall balance, and clarity with OPTIMOX Iodoral. This supplement contains the same dual-action iodine support os the previously mentioned products, but it has twice the number of tablets in its bottle.
Key Features:
- Potassium iodide and molecular iodine
- 12.5mg per tablet
- 180 tablets included
Cost: $38
Relentless Improvement Iodine Sublime
Vegan-friendly and absent of fillers, the Relentless Improvement Iodine Sublime is a pure iodine supplement that provides the ideal mix of potassium iodide and molecular iodine per caplet.
Key Features:
- Potassium iodide and molecular iodine
- 12.5mg per caplet
- 200 caplets included
Cost: $30
The RLC Labs i-Throid dietary supplement helps produce essential hormones in the adrenal, pituitary, and thyroid glands. There are 90 capsules per bottle and 1 capsule is a complete serving.
Key Features:
- Potassium iodide and molecular iodine
- 12.5mg per capsule
- 90 capsules included
Cost: $17
The Swanson Triple Iodine Complex has three forms of iodine, including sodium iodide, to ensure complete and balanced absorption of this vital nutrient. The product has been lab-tested for purity and potency.
Key Features:
- Potassium iodide, sodium iodide, and molecular iodine
- 12.5mg per capsule
- 60 capsules included
Iodine Pills for Thyroid Health
Comprised of over a dozen energy-boosting, brain fog reducing vitamins, minerals, and herbs, the 1 Body Thyroid Supplement is a full-body supplement that also has 150mcg of iodine to support your thyroid and adrenal health.
Key Features:
- Contains 150mcg of iodine
- 14 vitamins, minerals, and botanical extracts
- 60 capsules included
Cost: $25
Natures Main Thyroid Supplement is packed with adaptogens like ashwagandha, vitamins like B12, and minerals like magnesium to revitalize your body and mind. 150mcg of kelp-derived potassium iodide is included in the mix as well.
Key Features:
- Contains 150mcg of potassium iodide
- 14 vitamins, minerals, and botanical extracts
- 60 capsules included
Cost: $16
NOW Supplements Thyroid Energy
The NOW Supplements Thyroid Energy capsules deliver an energy-boosting mix of ashwagandha, guggul, L-Tyrosine, B6, B12, and more. A modest helping of potassium iodide is included to stimulate your thyroid hormones which will further energize your body at the cellular level.
Key Features:
- Contains 225mcg of potassium iodide
- 10 vitamins, minerals, and botanical extracts
- 90 capsules included
Kelp-Derived Iodine Pills
Divine Bounty Iodine Supplement
Divine Bounty Iodine Supplement is comprised of whole-plant kelp that was grown in the USA. Each capsule contains 250mcg of iodine from raw, natural sea kelp. The capsule is made from vegetable cellulose, making this a totally vegan-friendly supplement.
Key Features:
- Iodine from whole-plant kelp
- 250mcg per capsule
- 60 capsules included
Cost: $20
Natural Nutra Kelp Iodine Supplement
Using kelp harvested from North Atlantic seawaters, Natural Nutra Kelp Iodine Supplement promotes thyroid health with 225mcg of potassium iodide per tablet. Whenever you purchase this product, Natural Nutra donates a portion of the proceeds to forest restoration.
Key Features:
- Potassium iodide from whole-plant kelp
- 225mcg per tablet
- 250 tablets included
Cost: $20
Using organic kelp, NusaPure Sea Kelp offers a whopping 325mcg per gel cap of iodine. The organic kelp is harvested from North Atlantic waters and the product is manufactured in the USA.
Key Features:
- Iodine from organic whole-plant kelp
- 325mcg per gel cap
- 200 gel caps included
Cost: $19
It is easy to modulate your intake of iodine with Raw Whole Food Iodine capsules. At 150mcg per capsule, you can better portion out exactly how much iodine you need to support your thyroid and increase your energy levels.
Key Features:
- Iodine from whole-plant kelp
- 150mcg per capsule
- 60 capsules included
Budget Iodine Pills
Douglas Labs Norwegian Seaweed
Each tablet of the Douglas Labs Norwegian Seaweed supplement contains 250mcg of iodine and 500mcg of Norwegian Seaweed, giving you the full benefits of all nutrients found in natural seaweed. This product provides thyroid support, immune support, and metabolic support.
Key Features:
- Iodine sourced from Norwegian Seaweed
- 250mcg per tablet
- 100 tablets included
Cost: $9
You won’t be short of iodine if you regularly take the Life Extensions Sea Iodine dietary supplement. These capsules are packed with 1000mcg of iodine sourced from kelp and seaweed known as bladderwrack.
Key Features:
- Iodine from kelp and bladderwrack
- 1000mcg per capsule
- 60 capsules included
Cost: $8
Natures Craft Thyroid Support Complex
Natures Craft Thyroid Support Complex supports healthy thyroid function and metabolism by combining the hormone regulating powers of iodine with a suite of other essential vitamins and minerals. B12, zinc, magnesium, and ashwagandha are just a few of the supportive ingredients in this formula.
Key Features:
- Contains potassium iodide from kelp
- 150mcg iodine per serving
- 14 vitamins, minerals, and botanical extracts
Cost: $10
