If iodine is low in the body, the thyroid gland enlarges to try to make more thyroxin. This causes a lump on the neck known as goiter. Oversupply of iodine can also cause a lump in the neck. Physiological functions of Iodine Part of thyroxin, needed for proper synthesis of this hormone Iodine deficiency in pregnant women causes cretinism in their offspring. Iodized salt is common in developed countries, where recognition of the cause and effect relationship of iodine to goiter led to the fortification of table salt with iodine, virtually eradicating goiter in those countries.
All cells contain iron.
Anemia - This is the most common worldwide deficiency disease. Plants contain phytates and other compounds that interfere with iron absorption, so people who are vegetarian or live in reduced meat consumption countries are at great risk of iron deficiency. Zinc is in very small quantities in the body, but it works with proteins in every organ. Zinc Sources - Meats, shellfish and poultry, legumes and whole grains. Zinc in high doses is toxic.