Iodine occurs in shellfish, seaweed, kelp and fish. Your body requires iodine to effectively produce thyroid hormones, reports MedlinePlus. Hyperthyoidism and other thyroid disorders, however, often require low iodine diets, which prevent your body from producing excessive thyroid hormones. Choose a diet can consisting of vegetables, grains, meats and poultry for low iodine.
Carbohydrates
When purchasing commercially processed foods, choose salt- and sodium-free rice, pasta, popcorn and matzo, which all contain low amounts of iodine. Processed carbohydrates like crackers and breads contain heavily iodized salts, according to the Entrust Medical Group. Homemade breads are ideal if made with non-iodized salt.
Vegetables and Fruits
Nearly every type of fresh vegetable and fruit contains little to no iodine, notes the Abramson Cancer Center of the University of Pennsylvania, except for spinach. Avoid frozen or canned vegetables, sauerkraut, pickles and tomato sauce, however, and stay away from bottled or canned juices, powdered drink mixes and dried fruits.
Protein
Proteins play an important role in a low-iodine diet. Egg whites and fresh meats with no additives are highly recommended. Purchase whole meat cuts and have the store butcher grind them for you instead of buying pre-packaged ground meat. Although iodine content found in livestock feed has increased over the years, iodine in meat is lower than in milk, reports MedlinePlus. Unsalted whole nuts and fresh nut butters are other low-iodine protein options.
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