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Head-to-head evidence comparison — which supplement is right for you?
Iodine wins 2 of 3 categories. Both are solid choices — the best pick depends on your specific goals.
Verdict
Mixed evidence
4 of 12 studies with measurable effects showed benefit.
Top outcomes
Verdict
Probably helps
2 of 3 studies with measurable effects showed benefit.
Top outcomes
150-300mcg for maintenance; higher only if deficient under supervision
Any time with food
Potassium iodide (most common and studied)
200-400mg standardized extract
Morning, With or without food
Standardized root extract (100:1 or 200:1)
4-12 weeks
4-8 weeks
4-12 weeks
2-4 weeks
2-4 weeks
Maternal Iodine Status and Birth Outcomes: A Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analysis
Nutrients (2023) · Meta analysis · n=42269
Birth weight was similar between UIC ≥ 150 μg/L and <150 μg/L (difference = 30 g, 95% CI −22 to 83, p = 0.3, n = 13, I2 = 89%) with no evidence of linear trend (4 g per 50 μg/L, −3 to 10, p = 0.2, n = 12, I2 = 80%).
Iodine fortification of foods and condiments, other than salt, for preventing iodine deficiency disorders
The Cochrane database of systematic reviews (2019) · Meta analysis · n=4317
This is equivalent to an increase of 38.32 µg/L (95% CI 24.03 to 52.61 µg/L).
Systematic review and meta-analysis of iodine nutrition in modern vegan and vegetarian diets
The British journal of nutrition (2023) · Meta analysis · n=4421
Vegan diets had the poorest iodine intake (17·3 µg/d) and were strongly associated with lower iodine intake (P = < 0·001) compared with omnivorous diets.
Immunomodulation in Middle-Aged Humans Via the Ingestion of Physta® Standardized Root Water Extract of Eurycoma longifolia Jack--A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel Study
Phytotherapy research : PTR (2016) · Rct · n=126
The numbers of total, naïve, and CD4(+) T cells were also higher in the TA group than those in P group (p < 0.05).
[Literature research and discussion on properties of a new oversea-introduced traditional Chinese medicine Malaysian ginseng(Tongkat Ali)]
Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica (2024) · Systematic review
Tongkat Ali has the main functions of tonifying kidney and replenishing essence, invigorating spleen and replenishing Qi, and soothing liver and relieving depression.
Effect of Eurycoma longifolia standardised aqueous root extract-Physta® on testosterone levels and quality of life in ageing male subjects: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled multicentre study
Food & Nutrition Research (2021) · Rct · n=105
Significant increase in total testosterone at week 12 (Physta 100 mg) and at weeks 4, 8 and 12 (Physta 200 mg) versus placebo.
Based on meta-analyses showing urinary iodine concentration increases with supplementation. Effects only meaningful in iodine-deficient populations. Excessive intake (>300mcg) may increase thyroid cancer risk. Most studies used potassium iodide; kelp-derived forms have variable bioavailability.
Based on meta-analysis showing significant testosterone elevation and multiple RCTs. Effects varied between healthy volunteers and hypogonadal men. Studies primarily used standardized water extracts.
AI-estimated from published studies. Interpret as directional guidance.
Iodine has a higher evidence score (8.5/10 vs 6/10) and wins in 2 of 3 categories.
For boost daily energy, Iodine has a higher relevance score (95 vs 65).
No known interactions between Iodine and Tongkat Ali have been documented in our database. However, always consult a healthcare provider before combining supplements.