Salt has been a dietary staple for thousands of years, prized for its ability to enhance the flavor of our food. But in recent years, salt has become somewhat of a dietary villain, blamed for everything from high blood pressure to heart disease. However, the truth is that iodized salt (table salt) is an essential nutrient that our bodies need in order to function properly. In this post, we’ll explore the many benefits of iodized salt, and why we need it in our diets. As usual, we need salt in moderation, of course.

What is Iodized Salt?

Salt is a mineral compound that is composed of sodium and chloride ions. It is found in both natural and processed foods, and is a key ingredient in many recipes. Salt is essential to life, and our bodies need it to perform a number of important functions.

The Benefits of Iodized Salt in the Diet

1. Regulates Fluid Balance

One of the key functions of salt in the body is to regulate fluid balance. Sodium, one of the main components of salt, is an electrolyte that helps to maintain the balance of fluids both inside and outside of our cells. When we don’t have enough sodium in our diets, we can become dehydrated, which can lead to a number of health problems.

2. Aids in Digestion

Salt is also important for digestion. It helps to stimulate the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, which is necessary for the breakdown of food. Without enough salt in our diets, our digestive systems can become sluggish and inefficient.

3. Supports Muscle Function

Salt is essential for muscle function, including the beating of our hearts. Sodium ions help to regulate the electrical signals that are transmitted through our nerves, which are necessary for proper muscle contraction and relaxation.

4. Improves Brain Function

Salt is also important for brain function. Sodium ions help to maintain the electrical impulses that are necessary for communication between our neurons. Without enough sodium, our brains can become foggy and our cognitive function can suffer.

5. Enhances Flavour

Of course, one of the most obvious benefits of salt is that it enhances the flavor of our food. Salt helps to bring out the natural flavors in foods, making them more enjoyable to eat.

6. Provides a great source of iodine

Iodized salt is a type of table salt that has been fortified with iodine, an essential mineral that our bodies need to function properly. Iodine is important for maintaining a healthy thyroid, which regulates metabolism, growth, and development in the body.

In areas where there is insufficient iodine in the soil, people may not get enough iodine through their diet alone, which can lead to iodine deficiency. This can have serious health consequences, particularly for pregnant women and young children, including goiter, hypothyroidism, mental retardation, and developmental delays.

Look for the “iodized” label on the salt package to ensure that it contains iodine. Also, check the level of iodine added to the salt – it should be between 15 to 40 mg per kilogram of salt. Consider your health conditions: If you have a pre-existing medical condition, such as high blood pressure or kidney disease, talk to your doctor before consuming iodized salt.

How Much Iodized Salt Do We Need?

Despite the many benefits of salt, it’s important to remember that too much of a good thing can be harmful. The American Heart Association recommends that adults consume no more than 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day, which is the equivalent of about one teaspoon of salt. However, many experts believe that this recommendation is still too high, and that we should aim for even lower levels of sodium in our diets.

It’s also important to note that not all salt is created equal. Highly processed, iodized salt can be high in additives and chemicals, which can be harmful to our health. Instead, choose a natural source or salt that is naturally rich in iodine, such as sea salt, Himalayan salt, or Celtic salt. These salts also contain a variety of minerals and trace elements that are beneficial to our health.

What’s the takeaway?

While it’s true that too much salt can be harmful, it’s important to remember that salt is an essential nutrient that our bodies need in order to function properly. By choosing high-quality, unrefined salt and consuming it in moderation, we can reap the many benefits that this mineral has to offer.

By incorporating salt into our diets in a healthy and balanced way, we can enjoy all of the delicious flavors that food has to offer, while also supporting our overall health and well-being. Schedule a call with me for a free Diet Audit!