A low iodine diet generally involves avoiding foods that are naturally high in iodine, such as fish and seafood, egg yolks, and dairy products. This approach is usually temporary and should be followed carefully.
A low iodine diet is most often recommended for 1 to 2 weeks before radioactive iodine therapy. This procedure may be used to treat hyperthyroidism or thyroid cancer.
Reducing iodine intake helps the thyroid absorb radioactive iodine more effectively. However, you should follow a low-iodine diet only under the guidance and supervision of a registered dietitian.
Foods to avoid
The foods that are restricted on a low iodine diet are:
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Iodized salt and sea salt;
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Egg yolks, whole eggs, and mayonnaise;
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Products made with iodized salt or sea salt;
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Dairy products, such as milk, cheese, ice cream, cream cheese, yogurt, butter, and heavy cream;
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Fish and seafood;
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Sea-derived products, such as agar-agar, seaweed, sodium alginate, and carrageenan;
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Processed meats, such as ham, salami, turkey breast, mortadella, hot dogs, sausage, sun-dried beef, and bacon;
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Organ meats, such as liver and kidneys;
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Soy and soy products, such as soybean oil, soy milk, soy sauce, tofu, and tempeh;
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Some vegetables and fruits, such as cherries, green beans, edamame, rhubarb, potato skins, watercress, celery, Brussels sprouts, eggplant, broccoli, and cabbage;
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Canned vegetables, such as olives, hearts of palm, pickles, peas, and corn;
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Cane molasses;
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Pasta made with eggs;
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Supplements containing milk, soy, or seafood, such as chitosan, whey protein, and casein.
You should also avoid products containing red dye, processed foods made with iodized salt, and supplements that include iodine.
According to the American Thyroid Association, individuals preparing for radioactive iodine therapy may also be advised to avoid red-colored medications and iodine-containing products, as these can interfere with treatment planning.
In addition, always check food labels carefully to determine whether a product contains iodine or iodine-based ingredients. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration notes that packaged foods must list their ingredients on the label, which can help you identify iodized salt or iodine-containing additives.
What to eat
The foods that can be consumed on a low iodine diet are:
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Non-iodized salt;
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Proteins, such as egg whites, fresh red meat, chicken, and pork;
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Fats, such as olive oil, corn oil, canola oil, and sunflower oil;
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All fresh or frozen vegetables, except those listed above;
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All fresh fruits and 100% fruit juices, except cherries;
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Herbs and spices, fresh or dried;
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Grains, such as rice, oats, pasta, corn, couscous, quinoa, wheat, and bread made without iodine, eggs, or dairy;
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Sweets, such as sugar, honey, molasses, homemade jams, and desserts made with banana, coconut, or papaya;
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Some beverages, such as drip coffee, natural coconut water, homemade teas, and soft drinks;
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Nuts and nut butters, such as walnuts, almonds, and peanuts;
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Legumes, such as beans, peas, lentils, and chickpeas.
In addition, plant-based beverages such as rice milk, almond milk, oat milk, and coconut milk may also be consumed.
However, the list of permitted foods can vary on a low iodine diet. For that reason, it’s important to follow guidance from a registered dietitian or physician.
Meal plan
The table below provides an example of a 3-day low iodine meal plan:
This meal plan is only an example, and the quantities and types of foods may vary depending on a person’s health status and nutrition needs.
For that reason, it’s recommended to consult a registered dietitian to build a nutrition plan tailored to your individual needs.