How are halogens used?

Halogens can be considered toxic; however, some are regarded as essential for a number of bodily functions and are used in a variety of everyday products, according to Boundless. Fluoride, for example, is a halogen compound found in products like baby formula, public water, vitamin supplements and toothpaste.

Although fluoride is used in a variety of products, overconsumption is considered to be fatal. Iodine is an essential halogen that is used in the body to aid in the functioning of the thyroid gland. Thyroid hormones are not produced without iodine, which can lead to hypothyroidism. Iodine is found in most salt products like coarse salt and table salt.