Endocrinologist warns against taking iodine supplements without prescription

Dr. Anastasia Samoilova, an endocrinologist and expert in integrative preventive medicine and nutrition, has warned of the risks associated with taking iodine supplements without a prescription or specialist supervision.

Samoilova explained that uncontrolled use of iodine supplements may lead to impaired thyroid function, hand tremors, and reduced bone density.

She added that a genetic predisposition to autoimmune thyroiditis is common, with one in five women carrying antibodies against thyroid tissue unknowingly. Excessive iodine intake can be perceived by the immune system as abnormal thyroid activity, prompting it to attack the gland more aggressively. This accelerates the decline in thyroid function and the onset of hypothyroidism, especially in people aged 40 to 45.

Additional effects of unsupervised iodine intake

Samoilova noted that the thyroid gland may contain independent nodules, which, when exposed to iodine, can begin to produce hormones excessively. This may result in a resting heart rate of up to 120 beats per minute, calcium loss from bones, and hand tremors.

She also emphasized that iron deficiency is among the most common problems, as the protein responsible for transporting iodine requires sufficient energy. When ferritin levels are low, iodine transport to cells is disrupted, causing it to remain in the bloodstream and irritate the immune system, which prevents the thyroid from functioning normally.