How does a lack of iodine affect the thyroid?

A lack of iodine can lead to thyroid disorders such as goitre and hypothyroidism.

Iodine is a crucial element that the thyroid gland needs to produce thyroid hormones, which regulate the body's metabolism. When there is a deficiency of iodine in the diet, the thyroid gland cannot produce enough of these hormones, leading to various health problems.

The most common disorder caused by iodine deficiency is goitre, which is the enlargement of the thyroid gland. This happens because the thyroid gland tries to compensate for the low levels of iodine by growing larger to absorb more iodine from the blood. This can lead to a visible swelling in the neck, and in severe cases, it can cause difficulty in swallowing and breathing.

Another disorder caused by iodine deficiency is hypothyroidism. This is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, weight gain, depression, and in severe cases, it can lead to mental and physical growth retardation in children.

Iodine deficiency can also lead to more serious conditions such as cretinism in infants, which is a condition characterised by severe mental and physical retardation. This is why it is particularly important for pregnant women to have an adequate intake of iodine.

The body does not produce iodine, so it must be obtained through the diet. The World Health Organisation recommends a daily intake of 150 micrograms for adults and 200 micrograms for pregnant and breastfeeding women. Foods that are rich in iodine include seafood, dairy products, and iodised salt.

In conclusion, iodine is an essential nutrient for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland. A lack of iodine can lead to various thyroid disorders, which can have serious health consequences. Therefore, it is important to ensure an adequate intake of iodine through the diet.