4 Reasons to Choose Iodised Salt

Iodised salt is more than just a government-mandated iodine addition that’s found in our kitchens. It’s a simple ingredient that not only adds taste to our meals but also contributes to our well-being in so many ways. Since salt is a widely used product, it became the most commonmedium for iodine addition through universal salt iodisation (USI) program and has beenhelpfulin preventing iodine deficiency disorder (IDD). 

For decades, it has been the mainstay of public health initiatives worldwide, addressing iodine deficiency disorder (IDD) and its debilitating consequences. India has been able to overcome the IDD hurdle to a large extent. According to India Iodine Survey 2018-19, around 76.3% of households consume adequate amount of iodised salt, containing at least 15 parts per million (ppm) of iodine. However, the survey also revealed a lack of awareness as only 22.4 per cent had a correct perception of the benefits of consuming iodised salt and 61.4 per cent were quite aware that optimal iodine nutrition prevents goitre.

It’s crucial, therefore, to not only understand the role iodine plays in our daily well-being, but also to cultivate an awareness of its significance.

1. Supportsprevention of Iodine Deficiency Disorder (IDD)

The most significant benefit of iodine is its ability to helpprevent Iodine Deficiency Disorder (IDD) and its supporting rolein mental development.Recommended DietaryAllowances, given by Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and NIN suggests 140 micrograms / day for adolescents and adults; 90-100 micrograms for children 1-12 years and 220-280 micrograms for pregnant and lactating women.

2. Supports healthy pregnancy

The most devastating consequences of IDD occur during pregnancy and early childhood, leading to impaired brain and cognitive development. Maintaining optimal iodine levels is essential as iodine deficiency can contribute to miscarriages and hypothyroidism. National guidelines recommend a higher intake of iodine during pregnancy clearly indicating its importance in this crucial life stage.

3. Promotes brain health in children

Iodine is particularly important for the healthy development of a child’s brain, especially during foetal development and infancy. The body needs iodine to fuel the production of thyroid hormone during the crucial first 1000 days, which spans from conception until a child’s second birthday Emerging research suggests this crucial developmental period may extend to age five. This thyroid hormone is essential for the formation of brain cells, the development of nerve connections, and the protective covering of nerve fibres.Iodine deficiency during these crucial formative stages can significantly affect brain development and cognitive abilities leading to lower cognitive performance.

4. Contributes to overallwell-being

It is well known that iodine plays a critical role in brain health and thyroid metabolism, which contributes to overall well-being. When iodine intake is insufficient, thyroid hormone production suffers, leading to sluggish metabolic contributions. Sufficient iodine intake helps improve cognitive and thyroid metabolic functions, contributing to maintaining overall well-being.