Health Guide

Iodotyrosine

Iodotyrosine is an organic compound formed when iodine binds to the amino acid tyrosine. It acts as a crucial building block for thyroid hormones (T3 and T4). While often found in desiccated thyroid supplements, it is naturally present in iodine-rich foods like seafood and dairy. It matters because it offers a bioavailable way to support your metabolism, energy levels, and brain health.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
Iodotyrosine
VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Bioavailability of Iodine Sources

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis
Absorption Rate
Source Type

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

  • Metabolic Regulation: Essential for creating the hormones that control how fast your body burns calories.
  • Energy Production: Prevents fatigue by ensuring thyroid hormones are synthesized correctly.
  • Brain Health: Supports cognitive function and mental focus.
  • Better Absorption: As an organic compound, it is often better tolerated and absorbed than synthetic inorganic iodine.

Deep Dive

Iodotyrosine is essentially iodine 'pre-packaged' for your body. When you eat foods rich in this compound, your thyroid gland doesn't have to work as hard to attach iodine to tyrosine molecules. This efficiency is vital for maintaining a stable metabolic rate. For those taking thyroid hormone replacement therapy, synthetic versions of this compound (like Liothyronine) mimic this natural process exactly.

Natural Food Sources

The best way to consume iodotyrosine is through whole foods. Sea vegetables and seafood are the winners here, followed by dairy products from cows fed iodine-rich feed.

Supplementation

If you are looking for a supplement, look for 'desiccated thyroid' extracts or iodine complexes. However, simply eating iodized salt or a serving of seaweed daily often meets the body's needs without the risk of over-supplementation.

Top Food Sources

Seaweed (Kombu)
Up to 2000mcg per gram
Cod
~150mcg per 3oz
Iodized Salt
70mcg per 1/4 tsp
Milk
~60mcg per cup
Shrimp
~35mcg per 3oz

Frequently Asked Questions

It is a component of natural thyroid medication (like Armour Thyroid), but it is also naturally found in food. It is not the synthetic drug itself, but the natural precursor.
It is difficult. You must rely on iodized salt or sea vegetables (like nori or kelp) to ensure you get enough iodine to form iodotyrosine.
Some iodine can be lost during cooking, especially boiling. Steaming or eating raw seafood helps preserve the most iodine content.
Fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, hair loss, and feeling cold are common signs of low thyroid function due to iodine deficiency.

Safety & Side Effects

Iodotyrosine is generally safe in food sources. However, supplemental intake carries risks. Excessive intake can trigger hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), leading to anxiety, weight loss, and heart palpitations. Individuals with autoimmune thyroid conditions (like Hashimoto's or Graves') should consult an endocrinologist before supplementing.

Scientific References

  • [1]Zimmermann, M. B. (2009). Iodine deficiency. *Endocrine Reviews*.
  • [2]Venturi, S., & Venturi, A. (2009). Iodine in evolution of salivary glands and in oral health. *Nutrition and Health*.
  • [3]National Institutes of Health - Office of Dietary Supplements: Iodine Fact Sheet.