Who Should Use Nascent Iodine? Is the Supplement Safe?

By Matthew Brookshire, holistic health scientist and owner of MAGNASCENT Iodine 

Iodine is a mineral that is essential for human health, and it is commonly used as a supplement to help meet daily iodine requirements. However, not everyone should take iodine supplements, and it is important to understand who should and should not use iodine.

Also, it is important to understand the difference between iodine and nascent iodine.

In this blog article, we’ll uncover the differences between the two forms of iodine, the safety of iodine supplements, and who should take them.

What is the Difference between Iodine and Nascent Iodine Supplements?

Iodine and nascent iodine are both forms of iodine that are used as dietary supplements, but they are different in their composition. 

Iodine is a naturally occurring element that is essential for human health, and it is commonly found in iodized salt and some seafood. Iodine supplements are typically taken in the form of potassium iodide.

Nascent iodine, on the other hand, is a type of iodine that is in atomic form or has an electromagnetic charge, meaning that it is more readily absorbed and utilized by the body. It is important to note that not all nascent iodine supplements are created equal and that their quality and purity may vary. 

Who Should Take Nascent Iodine?

The mineral iodine is essential for everyone, WebMD points out. Supplements may be needed if you don’t get enough in your diet. 

One group of people who may benefit from taking nascent iodine supplements is those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, women have increased iodine requirements to support the growth and development of the fetus and infant, points out an article on iodine supplementation from Nutrients journal. Iodine is important for the production of thyroid hormones, which are essential for the proper growth and development of the brain and nervous system. 

People with hypothyroidism also may benefit from nascent iodine supplements that help the body regulate thyroid hormones. These natural supplements may reduce or eliminate the need for prescription thyroid drugs. Consult with a healthcare provider before reducing or eliminating prescription medication.

People who live in areas with iodine-deficient soil also may benefit from taking nascent iodine supplements. Iodine is naturally found in soil, and the amount of iodine in the soil can vary depending on the location. In areas with iodine-deficient soil, the population may be at risk of iodine deficiency, which can lead to goiter and other health problems, research shows in Endocrine Reviews. Taking an iodine supplement can help prevent iodine deficiency in these populations.

Who Should Not Take Nascent Iodine Supplements?

However, some people should not take forms of iodine supplements, such as those with an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), according to the National Institutes of Health. Excess iodine can worsen their condition.

Others who may be cautious about taking iodine and nascent iodine supplements are those with a history of autoimmune thyroid disease, such as Grave’s disease, and people with kidney disease, as their kidneys may not be able to process excess iodine.

Lastly, people who have had a reaction to iodine in the past, such as a skin rash, should also avoid taking forms of iodine supplements. Again, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider before starting an iodine supplement to determine if it is safe and appropriate for you.

Is Taking a Nascent Iodine Supplement Safe?

Like any supplement, you would not want to take an excessive amount. According to the National Health Service, taking 0.5mg or less a day of an iodine supplement is unlikely to cause any harm.

With MAGNASCENT Iodine, each drop of our 2% MAGNASCENT Iodine equals 0.35 milligrams of iodine. This is within recommended amounts for iodine supplements. And as mentioned earlier, the difference between iodine supplements and nascent iodine supplements is that nascent iodine is more bioavailable and easier for the body to absorb.

When it comes to MAGNASCENT Iodine dosage, I recommend taking it on an empty stomach, such as before breakfast. If you prefer to take your iodine intake on a full stomach, he recommends holding the water and iodine in your mouth for 30 seconds before swallowing to allow for soft tissue absorption.