4. Iodine Deficiency: An Overlooked Trigger
While seemingly benign, an iodine deficiency in your diet could significantly influence your risk of developing thyroid cancer. The thyroid gland requires iodine, a trace mineral, to produce thyroid hormones. A lack of iodine in the diet can cause the thyroid gland to work overtime, trying to produce enough of these hormones. This excessive work can cause changes in the thyroid gland, which could, over time, result in thyroid cancer.
Iodine deficiency is more common in parts of the world where iodine is not routinely added to table salt or where the local soil is deficient in iodine, affecting the food supply. Even in developed countries, some people may not get enough iodine if they don’t consume iodized salt, dairy products, seafood, or foods grown in iodine-rich soil.
It’s important to note, however, that too much iodine can also cause thyroid problems. An excess of iodine, especially from supplements, can lead to either hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism and may also be associated with an increased risk of certain types of thyroid cancer. Therefore, it’s essential to maintain a balance in iodine consumption for optimal thyroid health. (4)
