Iodine is an essential mineral used by the thyroid gland to make thyroid hormones. Those hormones help regulate metabolism and are important for normal growth and neurodevelopment.
Dietary sources
Iodized salt, dairy foods, eggs and seafood are common sources in U.S. diets, although intake varies with food choices and the type of salt used. Specialty salts are not automatically iodized.
Why balance matters
Both iodine deficiency and excessive iodine intake can disrupt thyroid function. That is why iodine should not be approached as a “more is better” nutrient, especially in children with known thyroid disease or those taking medicines that affect the thyroid.
Supplement context
The AAP’s general guidance is food-first for most healthy children, with supplements considered when diet, deficiency or a medical condition creates a reason for them. When iodine appears on a supplement label, read the amount per serving and account for other dietary and supplemental sources.
Where it appears in DocVites
Iodine is included in the current formulations of DocVites Children’s Multivitamin with Prebiotics and DocVites Multivitamin Chewable Tablets. It is not part of the current DocVites infant multivitamin formula.
NIH Office of Dietary Supplements: Iodine
American Academy of Pediatrics / HealthyChildren.org: Vitamin Supplements for Children
FDA: Questions and Answers on Dietary Supplements
Educational information only. This article describes normal nutrient physiology and label context; it does not claim that a DocVites product diagnoses, treats, cures or prevents disease. Follow the finished product label and discuss individual supplementation questions with your child’s pediatrician.