Which deficiency is a common cause of hypothyroidism?

Iodine deficiency is a common cause of hypothyroidism because iodine is an essential nutrient required for the production of thyroid hormones, namely thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). The thyroid gland uses iodine to synthesize these hormones, which play crucial roles in regulating metabolism, growth, and development. When there is an insufficient amount of iodine in the diet, the thyroid cannot produce enough hormones, leading to hypothyroidism. This condition can manifest as fatigue, weight gain, and sensitivity to cold, among other symptoms.

Other nutrients, like iron, vitamin D, and calcium, while important for overall health, do not have the same direct role in thyroid hormone synthesis as iodine does. Iron is vital for hemoglobin formation and energy production, vitamin D is crucial for bone health and immune function, and calcium is primarily involved in bone structure and nerve signaling. They do not have the same impact on thyroid hormone production, making iodine deficiency the primary concern when it comes to hypothyroidism.