Final answer:
The mineral iodine is crucial for growth and sexual maturation, particularly through its role in thyroid hormone synthesis. Inadequate intake can lead to disorders such as cretinism in children. Vitamin D is another crucial nutrient, necessary for calcium absorption and bone health.
Step-by-step explanation:
Inadequate intake of the mineral iodine can lead to poor growth and sexual immaturity. Iodine is required for the synthesis of thyroid hormones T3 and T4, which are fundamental for physical growth and development, including sexual maturation. Iodine deficiency can particularly affect children leading to conditions like cretinism that are characterized by stunted physical and mental growth, and adults can suffer from goiter and hypothyroidism. A varied diet typically provides sufficient iodine. However, individuals in landlocked areas where the soil is low in iodine can face deficiency; for them, the consumption of iodized salt is a common solution.
Another important nutrient in this context is vitamin D, which is vital for the absorption of calcium in the body. Inadequate vitamin D can result in the malabsorption of calcium, leading to conditions like rickets in children, characterized by improper bone development, and osteomalacia in adults, contributing to osteoporosis. Sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D, and it can also be obtained from dietary sources like fish, egg yolks, and fortified dairy products.
Learn more about Iodine and Vitamin D Deficiency