Iodine is a trace element needed for the synthesis of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland. These hormones are important in the growth, development, and control of metabolic processes in the body. Lack of iodine can lead to iodine deficiency disorders (IDDs), such as goiter, thyroid malignancy, mental deficiency, physical deformities, congenital hypothyroidism, cretinism, and reproductive failure.
Individuals with goiter often manifest an abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland. Signs and symptoms of goiter may include tiredness, a decrease or increase in weight, low or increased appetite, depression, dryness of skin and hair, sleepiness, diarrhea or constipation, and menstrual irregularities for women.
“Iodized salt, when used moderately, is an effective vehicle to ensure you’re getting enough iodine in your diet because iodized salt is technologically simple, low in cost, and can serve as a regular daily supplement. Getting enough iodine helps improve thyroid health, reduce the risk of IDDs, regulate hormones, and improve brain development in the fetus,” said Dr. Parolita A. Mission, NNC 7 Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator.
NNC Region VII advises the public to use iodized salt in their meals and eat iodine-rich food, such as seafood (shellfish and seaweed), bread, eggs, meat, and dairy products. The government agency also urges individuals who are experiencing symptoms of goiter to immediately see a doctor. Pregnant women should be given extra and special attention because iodine deficiency during this critical period can cause premature birth, miscarriage, or delivery of a baby with low intellect.
The World Health Organization (WHO) warns against excessive intake of iodized salt and recommends less than five grams or one teaspoon of iodized salt per day. WHO also points out that a woman’s iodine requirements increase substantially during pregnancy to ensure adequate supply to the fetus.
Also, in observance of Goiter Awareness Week, the Regional Bantay Asin Task Force 7 recently monitored salt manufacturers in Central Visayas to help ensure the implementation and sustainability of the salt iodization program in the region. The task force also collected salt samples from markets, bakeries, eateries, and households.
The Philippines has adopted the WHO-endorsed universal salt iodization strategy and institutionalized it through Republic Act No. 8172, An Act for Salt lodization Nationwide (ASIN Law).
Eliminating the risk of goiter among Filipinos using iodized salt and consuming iodine-rich food is a nutrition-specific initiative that supports the desired outcome of the 2023–2028 Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (PPAN), which is the reduction in all forms of malnutrition. //PR by NNC Region VII, with MINd 7