Low Iodine Diet (LID)
A low iodine diet is usually recommended before radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy or diagnostic scans to improve the effectiveness of the treatment. The aim is to temporarily reduce the body's iodine levels so that the thyroid cells—and any remaining cancer cells—absorb radioactive iodine better.
What You Can Eat:
- Fresh homemade foods
- Fruits and most vegetables
- Rice, wheat, oats, millets
- Dal, legumes, nuts (unsalted)
- Fresh chicken, fish (not seafood)
- Oil, sugar, spices, tea, coffee
Foods to Avoid
- Iodised salt (use non-iodised salt for this period)
- Milk & milk products – curd, paneer, cheese, butter
- Seafood – fish from the sea, prawns, seaweed, kelp
- Bakery items (often contain iodised salt or additives)
- Processed foods, pickles, packaged snacks
- Red food colours containing E127
Duration
A low iodine diet is typically followed for 1–2 weeks before RAI treatment and can be stopped once the scan or therapy is completed, as advised by your doctor.
Important Notes
- It is not a long-term diet.
- It does not mean low salt, only low iodine.
- Always follow your treating specialist’s specific instructions, as requirements may vary.