Which is Better: Eating Non-Iodized Salt or Iodized Salt?

Whether it is better to consume non-iodized salt or iodized salt depends on the region one lives in and one's personal health condition. For people in high-iodine or coastal areas and those with thyroid diseases, non-iodized salt is a better choice. For those in areas with iodine deficiency and most healthy individuals, iodized salt is preferred.

1. Situations Where Non-iodized Salt is Beneficial

The difference between iodized salt and non-iodized salt lies in the presence of iodine, which is one of the essential trace elements for the human body. The body cannot synthesize iodine and must obtain it from external sources. People in high-iodine or coastal areas already consume enough iodine in their daily diet, so there is no need for additional iodine intake. Otherwise, excessive iodine intake can lead to diseases such as hyperthyroidism. Therefore, non-iodized salt is a better option for them. For patients with thyroid diseases such as hyperthyroidism, thyroiditis, and autoimmune thyroid diseases, consuming iodized salt may be detrimental to their recovery and even exacerbate their condition. Thus, these individuals should consume non-iodized salt to avoid excessive iodine intake.

2. Situations Where Iodized Salt is Beneficial

Most people live in areas with iodine deficiency, and the iodine content in their food cannot meet their daily needs. Therefore, consuming iodized salt is beneficial. Iodized salt is suitable for most healthy individuals, especially adolescents, pregnant women, and lactating newborns. It can provide the body with a certain amount of iodine and promote thyroid hormone synthesis.