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Read the full articleThe Iodine Protocol recommends 1/2 teaspoon of unrefined salt per day. Salt provides chloride, which helps our bodies eliminate bromine and other halides that are displaced when we supplement with iodine.
Every cell in our body depends on sodium to operate the sodium-glucose pump, which is how cells access glucose for fuel. Without adequate sodium, cellular energy production suffers. The word “salary” comes from Roman soldiers being paid in salt (“salarium”) — that's how vital it has been throughout human history.
We naturally lose salt through sweat, tears, blood, and urine. When sodium runs low, the body lets us know.
The conventional wisdom that “salt is bad” is based on research involving refined table salt — a heavily processed product stripped of minerals and loaded with additives. Unrefined salt is a different substance entirely.
Redmond Real Salt and Himalayan pink salt are the recommended options. Celtic salt was once popular but is no longer recommended — see below.
Celtic sea salt is dried in clay containers, and there is concern that toxins from the clay leach into the salt during the drying process. Given that the iodine protocol is specifically aimed at detoxification, adding a potential source of clay-derived toxins to our daily salt intake is counterproductive. Better options are available.
Previously a top recommendation in the iodine community — this is a recent concern worth taking seriously.
Mined from an ancient sea bed in Utah. Pink color with visible mineral flecks. Widely available in the US. Dry texture, easy to use. No clay drying process.
Mined from ancient deposits in Pakistan. Contains iron oxide (pink color) and 80+ trace minerals. Widely available worldwide. No clay drying process.
About microplastics: Some raise concerns about microplastics in sea salt. The benefits of unrefined salt for those beginning iodine protocols generally outweigh this concern. Focus on supporting detoxification rather than avoiding all potential contaminants.
Daily Amount
1/2 teaspoon per day, added to food. Increase during active detox symptoms.
With Food
Add salt to meals throughout the day for steady absorption. This is the preferred daily method.
Salt Loading (For Detox)
When experiencing bromine detox symptoms, salt loading can provide faster relief. This is a specific protocol, not for daily use.
Salt is one piece of the puzzle. Explore the full protocol and supporting nutrients.