Sea Salt and Iodine Answers

The best salt is unrefined salt. It is light grey, pink, or beige in color. Specific brands to look for include Brittany sea salt, Celtic sea salt, Eden sea salt, Himalayan crystal salt, Krystal salt, and Sea Works unrefined sea salt. The reason that sea salt is good for you is that it is rich in minerals (including iodine) and is alkalizing to the body. The reason the confusion comes up about iodine and salt is during the refining process everything is removed and then iodine is added back. With these natural salts, it is already there!

More on iodine - Iodine is a trace element and an essential micronutrient. Remember that the term "essential" means our body does not make it, we have to ingest it. Iodine is needed for endocrine efficiency, normal growth, and cellular function. It is used in making the thyroid hormones of thyroxine and triidothyronine. We need it in small amounts, but the body can not store it, so we need to consume it on a regular basis.

The best sources of iodine are sea foods (particularly cold water deep sea fish), unrefined sea salt, kelp and other sea weeds, fish broth, butter, pineapple, artichokes, asparagus, and dark green vegetables. Certain vegetables (that contain "goitrogen") actually block iodine absorption. These foods should be cooked. They include broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, peanuts, rutabaga, soybeans, turnips, and watercress. In addition flouride and chlorine block iodine receptors in the thyroid. The B vitamins aid thyroid function.

Bernard Rosen, PhD is a Nutrition Consultant and Educator. He works with individuals, groups, and at corporations to create individualized nutrition and wellness programs. He is an expert in the field of Nutrition and Erectile Dysfunction. His office is in Thiensville, WI. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, e-mail at bernie@brwellness.com, call (262) 389-9907 or go to www.brwellness.com.