CASE: Should I take iodine if I have Hashimoto’s?

"I have had Hashimoto’s for several years and take Letrox. I recently took PureNordic’s vitamin and mineral analysis, and it showed 33% iodine deficiency. I was recommended to supplement with iodine, but I am afraid. There is so much information online saying that iodine is harmful if you have Hashimoto’s. Is it safe?"
– Renate, patient from Norway

Our answer:

Thank you for your trust, Renate. This is a very important and common question we receive. Iodine in connection with Hashimoto’s is actually a controversial topic. As a clinical nutritionist and health protocol specialist at PureNordic, I would like to explain step-by-step how our holistic approach works for patients with Hashimoto’s.

1. Iodine and Hashimoto’s – Is it really dangerous?

High-dose iodine (e.g., from so-called "iodine protocols") is not safe for autoimmune conditions, and we never use such approaches. Such megadoses can trigger or worsen autoimmune reactions.

At PureNordic, we base iodine supplementation solely on lab-confirmed deficiency and the individual clinical picture. In your case – with 33% deficiency – we recommend starting with one capsule daily, which covers the daily need. If well tolerated, it can be increased to 2–3 capsules. All changes must be made gradually and monitored.

It is also crucial to consider the quality and form of iodine. Many commercial supplements contain contaminated or poorly absorbable forms.

Our iodine supplement is:

- Organically extracted from handpicked Norwegian seaweed (wild-growing in Arctic waters)

- Combined with adaptogens like reishi and dandelion root, which support the thyroid and immune system

- Free from synthetic additives and lab-tested for purity

Read more here: [PureNordic Iodine Supplement]

Iodine plays a key role in immune modulation – not just in the production of thyroid hormones. Deficiency can lead to much broader health problems.

After the thyroid gland, iodine is most concentrated in breast tissue and ovaries. Deficiency can be linked to PCOS, irregular cycles, cysts, reduced fertility, and even fibromyalgia. Every cell in the body has iodine receptors – making iodine essential far beyond the thyroid gland.

2. Hashimoto’s is not a thyroid disease

Hashimoto’s is an autoimmune condition, not primarily a thyroid gland malfunction. The gland becomes the victim, but the root of the problem is an immune system out of balance.

At PureNordic, we always start by supporting digestion – especially stomach acid, bile flow, and the gut barrier. Over 70% of immune activity is regulated in the gut.

Without good digestion:

- Absorption of nutrients is impaired

- Hormone conversion (T4 to T3) is reduced

- Toxins accumulate and burden the gland

PureNordic Digestive Support is a key supplement for patients with IBS, reflux, bloating, diarrhea/constipation, and autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s. It:

- Improves protein breakdown (amino acids are building blocks for hormones)

- Supports iron absorption – iron deficiency is common with hypothyroidism and often persists despite supplementation

- Stimulates bile production, which is important for:

* Activation of thyroid hormones

* Absorption of vitamin D3

* Detoxification of heavy metals

Read more here: [PureNordic Digestive Support]

3. Iodine as part of a holistic PureNordic protocol

We know many factors affect metabolism. Therefore, we develop individual protocols based on tests and symptoms, combining several targeted supplements.

We usually support:

- Hormone production (iodine + amino acids)

- Conversion of T4 to T3 (requires liver, kidneys, stomach, D3, iron)

- Hormone receptor sensitivity

We never use iodine alone. We combine it with:

- Electrolytes and magnesium – for detoxification

- Silicon – for cell integrity and cleansing

- Mitochondria formula – omega-3, selenium, and ATP support

- Digestive support – for absorption and activation

4. Impact on medication dosing

Synthetic hormones (Letrox, Euthyrox) are inactive precursors. They must be converted to T3 to work – a process that requires good digestion, liver and kidney function, and micronutrients.

When digestion improves and deficiencies are corrected, the dose can become too high – causing overdose symptoms like palpitations, restlessness, and sleep problems.

Therefore, we recommend monitoring TSH every 2–4 weeks after starting, and always adjusting medications in collaboration with your doctor.

5. Diet and lifestyle

In addition to supplements, we recommend:

- Anti-inflammatory diet (gluten- and dairy-free, minimally processed, rich in healthy fats and whole foods)

- Good sleep and circadian rhythm

- Daily daylight

- Reduced stress and screen time

- Room for rest and recovery

The most important thing is to listen to your body, make changes gradually and in context – never in isolation. We always recommend discussing with your doctor and monitoring closely.

We also recommend a full blood test package and ultrasound of the thyroid gland to monitor changes and adjust the protocol precisely.

Key points:

- Iodine can be safe and useful in Hashimoto’s – when used correctly and individually

- You cannot treat Hashimoto’s with iodine alone – it requires a holistic strategy

- Each protocol must be personal and based on symptoms and laboratory data

Paulina Borkowska
PureNordic.life