Question

(a) A lot of awareness is being spread about the use of iodised salt in food. Why so?

(b) What happens if iodine is not incorporated into our diet?

(c) Iodine deficiency is common in which place?

(d) Can this deficiency affect all ages and sex?

Answer 1

(a).

1. The use of iodised salt is essential because iodine is an important mineral nutrient.
2. It is needed for maintaining the functions of the thyroid gland and other growth-related functions.

(b).

1. If iodine is not incorporated into the diet then it will lead to a deficiency of iodine.
2. Thyroid functioning will be disturbed and it will lead to a disease called goitre(lump on the neck).

(c).

1. In hilly regions, the food and drinking water lack iodine.
2. Thus, iodine deficiency is commonly seen in people living in hilly areas.

(d).

1. Yes, in children, deficiency of iodine causes cretinism, i.e retardation of physical and mental growth.
2. In adults, it results in causing goitre(swelling in the neck region.)