ACE Health Coach Certification 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Iodine is the micronutrient that can lead to goiter due to both deficiency and toxicity. A deficiency of iodine in the diet can result in an enlarged thyroid gland, known as a goiter, as the body attempts to stabilize levels of thyroid hormones. Iodine is essential for the synthesis of these hormones, and when there is insufficient iodine, the thyroid enlarges in an effort to capture more of this nutrient.

On the other hand, an excessive intake of iodine can also cause issues with thyroid function, leading to toxic effects that may also result in goiter. This dual relationship highlights the delicate balance that is necessary for maintaining adequate iodine levels for thyroid health.

Other micronutrients mentioned, such as calcium, vitamin E, and iron, do not have a direct link to goiter formation. Calcium is primarily important for bone health and muscle function, vitamin E is an antioxidant that protects cells from damage, and iron is crucial for blood health. None of these micronutrients are involved in the synthesis of thyroid hormones like iodine.