Eat Right Practice Exam

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Prepare for the Eat Right Exam with our quiz. Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions with detailed explanations and hints. Ace your exam!

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Which nutrient is essential for thyroid function?

Iodine
Iron
Calcium
Zinc

The correct answer is: Iodine

Iodine is essential for thyroid function because it is a crucial component of the hormones produced by the thyroid gland, primarily thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones regulate various metabolic processes in the body, including growth, development, and energy metabolism. Without adequate iodine intake, the thyroid cannot synthesize these hormones properly, which can lead to conditions such as goiter (enlargement of the thyroid gland) and hypothyroidism, where the body does not produce enough thyroid hormone. This is why iodine is often added to table salt and is a critical focus in public health initiatives aimed at preventing iodine deficiency. Other nutrients like iron, calcium, and zinc play important roles in the body but do not directly affect the synthesis of thyroid hormones in the way iodine does.