What are common symptoms of iodine deficiency?

Iodine is an essential trace element that plays a crucial role in the production of thyroid hormones. When there is a deficiency in iodine, the body cannot produce enough thyroid hormone, which leads to several health issues. The most common symptoms associated with iodine deficiency include goiter, hypothyroidism, fatigue, and developmental delays in infants.

Goiter is the enlargement of the thyroid gland, which occurs as the body attempts to compensate for low thyroid hormone levels. Hypothyroidism results from insufficient hormone production, leading to symptoms such as fatigue due to decreased metabolism. In pregnant women and infants, a lack of iodine can result in serious developmental issues, as thyroid hormones are vital for brain development in the fetus and very young children. Therefore, the presence of these specific symptoms signifies an overwhelming connection to iodine deficiency.