Which statement best explains why iodized table salt reduced the prevalence of iodine deficiency disorders?

Because adding iodine to widely consumed table salt provided a consistent, affordable population-wide source of iodine that reached many households regardless of dietary patterns.

Because iodized salt replaces all seafood sources of iodine and forces the body to upregulate endogenous iodine synthesis to prevent deficiency.

Because iodized salt increases salt molecular weight and thereby directly stimulates thyroid hormone production in a way unrelated to iodine content.

Because iodized salt was used mainly by hospitals and had little community penetration, so deficiency declined due to unrelated improvements in general sanitation.