In recent years, health-conscious people have become more aware of what they eat. Many are swapping regular white salt for alternatives like pink salt, sea salt or Himalayan salt. These salts are marketed as “healthier” due to their mineral content. But experts are now warning that this popular switch may come at a hidden cost, especially for your thyroid health.
In an Instagram post shared on Feb 20, Bengaluru-based fitness coach Ralston D’Souza recently highlighted the risks associated with replacing iodised table salt with it. His advice is that the so-called benefits of pink salt may be largely marketing and the health trade-offs are real.
Why Pink Salt May Not Be the Healthier Choice
Many people choose pink salt because it contains trace minerals not found in regular salt. However, the actual quantities of these minerals are extremely small. To gain any meaningful nutritional benefit from pink one, you would have to consume unrealistic amounts. This is neither practical nor safe, as too much salt can harm your heart and kidneys.
Meanwhile, pink salt lacks iodine, an essential nutrient needed for proper thyroid function. Ralston D’Souza explained, “Relying on pink salt as a healthier alternative may create a false sense of security. You might think you are getting more minerals, but you are actually missing iodine, which is vital for thyroid health.”
Benefits Of Iodised Table Salt
Table salt in India is iodised to prevent iodine deficiency, which historically caused serious health problems. In the 1960s, iodine deficiency led to thyroid disorders, pregnancy complications and impaired brain development in children.
Universal iodisation of salt has dramatically reduced these health risks over the decades. Iodised salt is affordable, widely available and nutritionally reliable. Replacing it entirely with pink or sea salt may unintentionally lower iodine intake, increasing the risk of thyroid issues.
With the rise of diet trends and fancy salts, it is easy to be tempted by colourful, expensive alternatives. However, experts recommend prioritising practicality and health over trends. Iodised salt remains the safest and most effective choice for daily use, supporting thyroid function and overall well-being.