What foods should be avoided as part of a low iodine diet?
A low-iodine diet is highly restrictive because many foods contain iodine. Foods to be avoided include most dairy products (milk, yogurt, ice cream, cheese), luncheon meats, bacon, hot dogs, fish, shellfish, noodles, pasta, cereals, pastry, breads, packaged rice, canned juices, canned fruits, canned or frozen vegetables, cocoa mixes, diet bars, jams/jellies, nuts, mustard, olives, candy, pretzels, and any snack foods. Patients can eat small portions of fresh chicken, fresh potatoes, fresh fruit, all fresh vegetables except spinach, sweet butter, vegetable oils, onion or garlic powder, fresh herbs, and popcorn with no salt.
