Iodized salt is any salt fortified with an essential mineral known as iodine. Iodine as well as sodium found in this type of salt can be found in most plants, including fruits and vegetables. However, the amounts you can get from plants may not always be enough. Especially if it has grown in poor soil. Therefore, iodized salt can help maintain a healthy iodine balance in the body. The benefits of using iodized salt are numerous, as the whole body relies on these two minerals to function properly.
What is iodized salt and what are its benefits:
This is the most common form of salt found in most kitchens, and it can help prevent goiter that may occur due to iodine deficiency, and iodized table salt is a good source of iodine.
Unfortunately, many people around the world are at increased risk due to iodine deficiency. It is considered a public health problem in 118 countries, more than 1.5 billion people are believed to be at risk, and deficiencies of micronutrients such as iodine are increasing in certain regions. Especially in areas where iodized salt is uncommon. Or there are low levels of iodine in the soil.
In fact, it is estimated that about one-third of the Middle East’s population is at risk of iodine deficiency and certain groups of people are iodine deficient. For example, pregnant or breastfeeding women are more likely to develop deficiencies because they need more iodine. Vegetarians are also at greater risk. One study looked at the diets of 81 adults and found that 80% of vegetarians were iodine-deficient, compared to only 9% of those who ate mixed diets.
Many countries around the world have begun fortifying iodized table salt in an effort to prevent iodine deficiency. The introduction of iodized salt has been incredibly effective in eliminating shortages in many parts of the world. Before the twenties, up to 70% of children in certain regions of the United States had goiter. But today, 90% of the U.S. population gets iodized salt. The incidence of thyroid problems resulting from iodine deficiency has also decreased significantly. This makes using iodized salt one of the easiest ways to prevent iodine deficiency without having to make other major adjustments to your diet. Half a teaspoon (3 grams) of iodized salt per day is enough to meet your daily iodine requirements.
Benefits of eating iodized salt
Helps improve thyroid function
Your body needs iodine to improve thyroid function. Your thyroid gland uses iodine to produce thyroid hormones. Which help in tissue repair, regulate metabolism and promote healthy growth and development. Thyroid hormones also play a direct role in controlling body temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate.
In case you don’t get enough iodine. Your thyroid gland has to work twice as hard to try to compensate and make more hormones. This causes cells in the thyroid gland to multiply and grow rapidly. Which leads to goiter. Therefore, it is recommended to eat food treated with iodine to get enough iodine and avoid goiter.
Helps improve brain function
Iodine deficiency can reduce IQ by up to 15 points. Fortunately, iodized salt can improve brain function. Such as memory, concentration and the ability to learn . It is a sufficient source of iodine.
Fights depression
Depression, feelings of anxiety and frustration may be the result of iodine deficiency. Iodized salt can help ensure that you get enough iodine to prevent these emotional feelings from occurring.
Weight Control
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