NutriStack
Iodine and Lithium, a caution.
Lithium concentrates in the thyroid and inhibits thyroid hormone synthesis. Iodine supplementation in lithium-treated patients can worsen lithium-induced hypothyroidism or paradoxically trigger thyrotoxicosis (Jod-Basedow effect).
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At a glance
- Pair type
- Caution
- Evidence (highest tier)
- Moderate
- Source citations
- 2 sources
- Stack Score effect
- −5 to your Stack Score (per scored caution row).
- Scope
- Supplement × Prescription
- Last verified
- May 30, 2026
Caution · Moderate evidence
Caution
What is happening. Lithium concentrates in the thyroid and inhibits thyroid hormone synthesis. Iodine supplementation in lithium-treated patients can worsen lithium-induced hypothyroidism or paradoxically trigger thyrotoxicosis (Jod-Basedow effect).
Mechanism. Lithium inhibits thyroid hormone synthesis by blocking TSH-induced adenylyl cyclase activation and inhibiting thyroglobulin proteolysis. Excess iodine can trigger the Wolff-Chaikoff effect in lithium-treated patients, worsening hypothyroidism.
Recommendation. Avoid iodine supplements while on lithium unless directed by your endocrinologist. Monitor thyroid function regularly. Kelp and seaweed supplements are high in iodine and should be avoided.
Sources (2)
- Kirov G et al. Thyroid disorders in lithium-treated patients. J Affect Disord. 2005;86(2-3):215-221. PMID 15935241
- Dineva M, Fishpool H, Rayman MP, Mendis J, Bath SC. Systematic review and meta-analysis of the effects of iodine supplementation on thyroid function and child neurodevelopment in mildly-to-moderately iodine-deficient pregnant women. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2020. PMID 32320029
Stack Score
How this pair moves the number.
Effect on the composite score
If both Iodine and Lithium are in the same stack, this pair applies −5 to your Stack Score (per scored caution row).
The full algorithm, the clamping rules, and four worked stacks are documented at /methodology/stack-score.
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