Question

The disease goiter is caused by a deficiency of these?

• A. Iron
• B. Calcium
• C. Potassium
• D. Iodine

Answer 1

Answer:

D. Iodine

• Goiter is an abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland, which is located at the base of the front of the neck.

• The thyroid gland requires the trace mineral iodine to synthesize thyroid hormones (thyroxine or $T_4$ and triiodothyronine or $T_3$).

• When dietary iodine is deficient, the thyroid gland cannot produce sufficient hormones, prompting the pituitary gland to release excess Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH). This constant over-stimulation causes the cells of the thyroid to multiply and enlarge, resulting in a swelling known as a goiter.