Describe the synthesis and secretion of thyroid hormones,

indicating the importance of dietary iodine.

Answer AND Explanation:

The thyroid gland secretes thyroxine, an iodine-containing hormone. The thyroxine stimulates carbohydrate, protein and lipid metabolism in most organs and tissues of the body. It has a general effect of increasing the metabolic rate. Deficiency of iodine in the diet causes the disease called goitre. This is characterized by an enlargement of the thyroid gland.