A deficiency of which mineral in the diet is the classic cause of goiter, an enlargement of the thyroid gland?

Explanation

Goiter, an enlargement of the thyroid gland visible as swelling in the neck, is classically caused by a deficiency of iodine, a mineral the thyroid needs to produce its hormones. Without enough iodine, the thyroid gland enlarges as it attempts to capture more iodine from the bloodstream to maintain hormone production. This is why iodized salt, table salt with a small amount of added iodine, has been widely promoted as a simple public health measure to prevent iodine deficiency. Explore more Everyday Science MCQs on mcqstutor to keep practicing.