Iodine is an important micronutrient, a vitamin or mineral that is necessary for good health. It helps the body to produce hormones, helps babies develop in the womb, and is important to many other body processes. In 1924, iodine was added to salt to make up for a lack of public access to dairy foods and ocean fish, which are natural sources of iodine. The modern American diet, however, includes many processed foods that contain iodine. As a result, many salt manufacturers have stopped adding iodine to their product, a change that did not get much attention in the media. Some nutrition experts are concerned that people who still rely on table salt as a source of iodine will have an increase in disease caused by a diet lacking in the micronutrient. Only time will tell, as America moves into a new era where table salt is no longer a guaranteed source of iodine. In 1–2 sentences, identify and explain the evidence that the author uses to support the idea that taking iodine out of table salt might cause harm.

Answer 1

The author highlights that iodine is critical for hormone production, fetal development, and various bodily functions, and points out that many processed foods may not provide adequate iodine, as some salt manufacturers have ceased adding it to their products. This suggests a potential public health risk, as individuals who rely on table salt for their iodine intake may face increased health issues due to dietary deficiencies.