Kelp
is a rich source of iodine. The purpose behind putting iodine in salt years ago was precisely to help prevent iodine deficiency. In today's society, where many of us restrict our salt intake, we may be lacking in iodine. Kelp can be used as another means of replacing iodine rather than table salt. Iodine is important for the functioning of the thyroid gland. Without sufficient iodine the thyroid does not function properly.