Iodine | Can Salt Make You Smart?
From Things I Learned Last Night by Jaron Myers and Tim Stone
May 5, 2026 · 1h 2m · Episode 324
About this episode
This episode explores the critical role of iodine in brain health and its historical significance in nutrition.
Are you accidentally hindering your brain health? Discover why iodine deficiency is a silent epidemic and how your simple salt choice affects IQ. In this episode, we dive into the surprising history and biological necessity of iodine, an essential chemical element that plays a critical role in human cognitive development. From its fascinating origins as a 'heavy metal' mineral to its vital function in the thyroid gland and hormone production (T3 and T4), we break down why this once-common nutrient has been slipping from modern diets. You’ll learn how the shifting preference for sea salt and kosher salt, combined with changes in the dairy industry, has contributed to a noticeable drop in average iodine levels since the 1970s. We also explore the historical success of iodized salt in preventing goiters and boosting IQ levels by an estimated 15 points in the 20th century. Whether you're curious about thyroid health, the history of nutrition, or simply want to know why your choice of kitchen staples matters, this deep dive provides essential, actionable health insights. Join us as we unpack the science of brain growth and why getting enough iodine is more important for public health…
People in this episode
Hosts: Jaron Myers, Tim Stone
Topics covered
- iodine deficiency
- brain health
- nutrition history
- thyroid function
- cognitive development
- dietary choices
Keywords
- iodine
- brain health
- iodized salt
- cognitive development
- thyroid gland
- nutrition
- diet
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: dairy industry, thyroid gland
Products: iodized salt, sea salt, kosher salt
Books & works: Things I Learned Last Night
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