Evidence supporting the use of: Salt (unspecified)
For the health condition: Goiter
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 5
Salt, specifically iodized salt, is scientifically validated as an effective means to prevent and treat goiter, particularly in regions where iodine deficiency is prevalent. Goiter refers to the enlargement of the thyroid gland, most commonly caused by insufficient iodine intake. The thyroid requires iodine to synthesize thyroid hormones, and a lack of this essential micronutrient prompts the gland to enlarge in an attempt to compensate.
Scientific intervention in the early 20th century led to the fortification of table salt with iodine (typically as potassium iodide or potassium iodate), a public health strategy that has dramatically reduced the incidence of iodine deficiency disorders, including goiter, worldwide. Numerous epidemiological studies and public health surveys have confirmed that populations with access to iodized salt have significantly lower rates of goiter and other iodine deficiency-related health issues. The World Health Organization (WHO), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and other major health organizations actively endorse salt iodization as a safe, effective, and low-cost intervention.
It is important to note that non-iodized salt does not confer this benefit, and thus only iodized salt should be considered for this purpose. The scientific consensus strongly supports the use of iodized salt as a primary measure to prevent and treat goiter due to iodine deficiency.
Other health conditions supported by salt (unspecified)
Addison's DiseaseAthlete's Foot
Cholera
Cold Sores
Dehydration
Goiter
Hangover
Hypotension