Evidence supporting the use of: Iron
For the health condition: Goiter

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Iron is scientifically validated as a supportive treatment in certain cases of goiter, particularly in populations where iron deficiency coexists with iodine deficiency. Goiter is most commonly caused by insufficient iodine intake, but research has shown that iron deficiency can exacerbate thyroid dysfunction and impair the effectiveness of iodine supplementation. Several studies have demonstrated that iron-deficient individuals, especially children and women of reproductive age, are less responsive to iodine therapy for goiter. This is thought to be because iron is a crucial cofactor for thyroid peroxidase, the enzyme responsible for the synthesis of thyroid hormones. Without adequate iron, the body cannot efficiently utilize iodine to produce these hormones, which may contribute to the persistence of goiter even after iodine supplementation.

A 2006 study published in The Lancet found that adding iron supplementation to iodine therapy significantly improved the reduction of goiter volume and thyroid function in school-age children with concurrent iron and iodine deficiency. The World Health Organization (WHO) also recognizes the impact of iron deficiency on thyroid metabolism and recommends consideration of iron status in goiter prevention and treatment strategies. However, it is important to note that iron supplementation is not indicated for all cases of goiter, but specifically for those with documented iron deficiency. The overall evidence supports the adjunctive use of iron in these specific cases, but not as a standalone treatment for goiter.

More about iron
More about Goiter