Iodized Salt Benefits

One must have often come across iodized salt in the market. In some countries, there are several programs and advertisements undertaken to create awareness about iodine and the use of iodized salt for human beings.

What is Iodized Salt
Iodized salt is the salt that is fortified with trace mineral iodine. Iodine is a mineral that is required in small amounts for growth and development of the body. This mineral is required in very small amounts and most of it is found in the thyroid gland. However, one may even find traces of it in other tissues of the body. Synthesis of the thyroid hormone is the primary function of the mineral iodine found in the body. This mineral carries out important function in the body and hence, should be consumed regularly in prescribed amounts. An excellent source of iodine is iodized salt, which is easily available in the market. This salt does not have a specific flavor or taste to it; it simply tastes like ordinary salt. Apart from iodized salt, good amounts of iodine can also be obtained from saltwater fish and sea vegetables.

Benefits of Iodized Salt
Before knowing the benefits, let us know about the consequences of iodine deficiency. As mentioned above, iodine is important for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland. Lack of iodine in the diet can result in disorders like hypothyroidism and goiter. Very severe iodine deficiency can even lead to abnormalities during pregnancy and development of the child. Therefore, if you are wondering, is iodized salt good for you or not, then it definitely is.

• Iodized salt helps prevent certain types of brain disorders and mental retardation
• It also helps in prevention of hypothyroidism, goiter, impaired thyroid function, abnormal weight gain and other thyroid problems.
• Salt containing iodine also helps prevent stillbirths, miscarriages, abortions and congenital growth abnormalities.
• Iodized salt prevents disorders like cretinism, stunted growth, apathy and other impaired movements.
• Having adequate amounts of iodine through the medium of iodized salt also helps in avoiding certain gastrointestinal and skin problems.
• It is also believed to treat and prevent constipation, dryness of skin and fatigue.

Iodized Salt Dosage
Although, iodine carries out so many functions, it is required in very little amounts by people. Children and infants require as little as 110 mcg per day, while adults require 150 mcg per day. However, one should remember that as there are several iodized salt benefits, it does not mean that a person should increase the intake of this salt. Excess consumption of iodized salt can result in iodine toxicity. Secondly, it also increases the sodium level in the body resulting in increased risk of heart diseases and high blood pressure. On the other hand, there are iodine supplements available in the market which should be taken only by the doctor's consultation or prescription. One should note that more than 2,000 mcg per day iodine can lead to toxicity.

This variety of salt is easily available in the market, one just needs to look out for a label on the product. So, the next time, you shop for your grocery, look out for iodized salt and keep yourself away from growth disorders. Take care!