Why is the use of iodised salt advisable?

Iodized salt is recommended for consumption because iodine is an essential micronutrient that the human body needs for the synthesis of thyroid hormones. The thyroid hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), play a crucial role in regulating the body’s metabolism, growth, and development. Iodine deficiency can lead to thyroid disorders and various health problems, particularly affecting the thyroid gland.

1. Prevention of Iodine Deficiency Disorders (IDD): Iodine deficiency is a significant global health issue that can lead to a range of disorders known as iodine deficiency disorders (IDD). These disorders include goiter (enlargement of the thyroid gland), hypothyroidism, and developmental problems, especially in pregnant women and infants.

2. Thyroid Function: Iodine is a crucial component of thyroid hormones. Without an adequate supply of iodine, the thyroid gland cannot produce sufficient amounts of T3 and T4, leading to imbalances in thyroid function. This can result in fatigue, weight gain, goiter, and other thyroid-related issues.

3. Cognitive Development: Iodine deficiency during pregnancy and infancy can have severe consequences for cognitive development in children. It is particularly important for pregnant women to have sufficient iodine intake to support the development of the fetal brain and prevent intellectual impairments in the child.

4. Goiter Prevention: Iodine deficiency often results in the enlargement of the thyroid gland, known as goiter. The thyroid enlarges as it tries to produce more thyroid hormones in the absence of sufficient iodine. Iodized salt helps prevent the development of goiter by ensuring an adequate supply of iodine.

5. Easy and Cost-Effective Solution: Iodizing salt is a simple and cost-effective way to ensure that a large population receives an adequate intake of iodine. Since salt is a commonly used condiment in many households, iodizing salt provides a practical means of reaching a broad segment of the population with this essential nutrient.

Public health initiatives, supported by organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, promote the use of iodized salt as a strategy to prevent iodine deficiency and its associated health problems. In many countries, salt iodization programs have been successful in significantly reducing the prevalence of iodine deficiency disorders.