Health Benefits of Mediterranean Sea Salt
Experts have long praised the health benefits of Mediterranean sea salt, claiming that it contains rich minerals that are beneficial to our health. One of the trace minerals present in the sea salt is iodine, which is important for maintaining healthy hormone function. In this article, we’ll take a look at what iodine is, what the benefits of consuming it are, and how Mediterranean sea salt can provide this nutrient in your diet.
What Is Iodine?
Iodine is an essential trace mineral found in small quantities in some food sources, such as seafood, dairy products and various types of salt. It is needed to facilitate a few key bodily functions, such as:
- Producing thyroid hormones
- Regulating metabolism
- Controlling growth and development
- Preventing goiter
Not getting enough iodine in your diet can lead to thyroid problems, including hypothyroidism, goiter and cretinism. Without enough iodine, humans can become mentally and physically stunted. It is essential, then, to make sure you are getting enough of this important mineral in your diet.
How Does Mediterranean Sea Salt Differ From Regular Table Salt?
Mediterranean sea salt is produced in the Mediterranean region by harvesting salt from the sea and then drying it under the sun. It is unrefined and contains trace minerals, including magnesium, calcium and iodine. Regular table salt, on the other hand, is produced using industrial mining techniques and is heavily processed, filtered and refined.
Because of the processing techniques used for regular table salt, most of the trace minerals and other beneficial nutrients are removed. This means that the salt is less nutritious than Mediterranean sea salt. Another difference is that regular table salt contains additives such as anti-caking agents, stabilizers and preservatives, while Mediterranean sea salt does not.
Does Mediterranean Sea Salt Contain Iodine?
Yes, Mediterranean sea salt does contain small amounts of iodine. According to the European Food Safety Authority, sea salts sourced from the Mediterranean region can contain up to ten times more iodine than regular table salt. However, the exact amount that is present in different types of Mediterranean sea salt varies and can depend on the mineral content of the seawater from which it is sourced.
Although the amount of iodine present in the Mediterranean sea salt does vary, it is still an excellent source of the mineral for many people. A tablespoon of Mediterranean sea salt contains between 46 and 592 micrograms of iodine, depending on the source.
How Can I Incorporate Mediterranean Sea Salt Into My Diet?
Mediterranean sea salt can be used as a seasoning for many dishes, including salads, stews and soups. It makes a great addition to homemade bread and is also used to finish off cooked dishes, such as grilled fish or roasted vegetables. You can also use it as a rub when cooking meat to add flavour and extra nutrients.
In general, it is best to limit your salt intake. However, because of the added health benefits associated with Mediterranean sea salt, it can be a great option when seasoning your food. Keep in mind that you do not need to use a lot of it to get the nutritional benefits.
Risks of Consuming Too Much Iodine
Although it is important to make sure you are getting enough iodine in your diet, it is also possible to consume too much of it. Consuming high levels of iodine can cause a type of iodine poisoning, which can lead to an enlarged thyroid, hypothyroidism, and other serious health issues. Therefore, it is advisable to speak to your doctor before incorporating too much iodine in your diet, especially if you have a pre-existing thyroid condition.
Foods High in Iodine
In addition to Mediterranean sea salt, there are other sources of natural iodine that you can incorporate into your diet. These include dairy products, fish, seaweed, eggs, and some types of bread, among other foods. It is important to eat a balanced diet, including a variety of different sources of iodine, to make sure you are getting enough of the trace mineral.
Are Iodized Table Salts Beneficial?
Iodized table salts are salts that have been enriched with iodine. The supplementation of iodine in table salt helps prevent iodine deficiency in people who do not consume enough seafood, dairy products and other natural sources of the mineral. Iodized table salt can provide a convenient way to get iodine in your diet and may be beneficial in countries where iodine deficiency is a significant problem.
The Bottom Line
All in all, Mediterranean sea salt definitely contains iodine and may be a great addition to your diet. However, it is important to remember that too much iodine can be toxic and it is best to consult your doctor before consuming large amounts of it. Try adding Mediterranean sea salt to your dishes to get the benefits of iodine without overdoing it.
