Iodine safety

Ingesting pure iodine (elemental iodine or high-concentration tinctures) is extremely dangerous. Unlike iodine naturally found in whole food sources or carefully formulated supplements, pure iodine can be toxic, corrosive, and potentially fatal when ingested improperly.

Dangers of Ingesting Pure Iodine:

1. Toxicity and Poisoning:

• The body only needs microgram amounts of iodine daily. Even a few drops of pure iodine can exceed the safe limit by thousands of percent.

• Acute iodine poisoning can cause abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, metallic taste, seizures, and even death in high enough doses.

2. Thyroid Disruption:

• The thyroid is extremely sensitive to iodine levels. Sudden, high intake can trigger thyroid storm, hyperthyroidism, or hypothyroidism, especially in those with preexisting thyroid conditions.

3. Mucosal and Gastrointestinal Damage:

• Pure iodine is highly caustic. It can burn the tissues of the mouth, esophagus, and stomach, leading to severe internal injury or scarring.

4. Kidney and Organ Damage:

• Iodine is cleared through the kidneys. Overdosing can overwhelm kidney function and cause renal failure or other systemic toxicity.

The Safer Alternative: Whole Food or Naturally Sourced Iodine

Whole food-based iodine—such as that from seaweed (like kelp or bladderwrack), dulse, or iodized sea salt—is bound to natural cofactors and absorbed more gently and effectively by the body.

• These forms are bioavailable, meaning they’re metabolized and regulated by the body with far less risk of overdose.

• They also come with trace minerals and nutrients that help support thyroid function and overall endocrine balance.

https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Iodine

https://draxe.com/nutrition/iodine-rich-foods/