DrFeb
Health Guide

Ammonium Iodide

Ammonium Iodide is a chemical compound used primarily in industrial and laboratory settings, such as photography and antiseptics. While it contains iodide—an essential nutrient for thyroid health—Ammonium Iodide itself is **not a safe or recommended dietary supplement** for everyday people. It is distinct from the iodine found naturally in foods like seaweed or fortified salt, which are safe sources for maintaining thyroid function and metabolism.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
Ammonium Iodide
VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Iodide Absorption: Natural vs Chemical Salt

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis
Safety/Effectiveness
Source Type →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It (The Iodide Part)

  • Thyroid Function: Iodide is crucial for producing thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism.
  • Metabolic Health: Supports energy levels and weight management.
  • Fetal Development: Essential for brain and bone development during pregnancy.

Deep Dive

Ammonium Iodide is a salt of hydroiodic acid and ammonia. While it provides iodide, the ammonium component makes it unsuitable for ingestion. Ingesting this chemical can lead to ammonia toxicity. To get the benefits of iodide, you should rely on natural sources (like seafood or dairy) or supplements specifically formulated for human consumption (like Potassium Iodide).

Natural Food Sources

Iodide is best obtained from whole foods. Ammonium Iodide is not a natural food source.

FoodAmount% DV
Seaweed (Nori)1g1000%+
Cod3oz100%
Iodized Salt1/2 tsp50%
Milk1 cup40%

Supplementation

Do not supplement with Ammonium Iodide. If you are deficient in iodine, look for supplements containing Potassium Iodide or Sodium Iodide. Consult a doctor before starting any iodine supplement.

Top Food Sources

Seaweed
Best natural source of iodide
Cod
Excellent protein source with iodide
Iodized Salt
The most common dietary source
Dairy Products
Milk and yogurt contain iodide
Eggs
Contains small amounts of iodide

Frequently Asked Questions

No. It is a chemical compound used in industrial applications. It is toxic if ingested.
It is primarily used in photography, as a source of iodide in chemical synthesis, and in antiseptics.
While it contains iodide, the ammonium makes it dangerous. Stick to iodized salt or seafood for dietary iodine.
Kelp, seaweed, cod, dairy products, and iodized salt are safe and natural sources.

Safety & Side Effects

Ammonium Iodide is NOT SAFE for consumption as a dietary supplement. It is a chemical salt. Ingesting it can cause nausea, vomiting, and severe gastrointestinal irritation. The release of ammonia can be toxic. Use only pharmaceutical-grade iodine supplements if prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Scientific References

  • [1]National Institutes of Health - Iodine Fact Sheet for Health Professionals
  • [2]World Health Organization (WHO) - Iodine Deficiency Disorders
  • [3]Toxicological Profile for Iodine (Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry)