Foods To Avoid Prior To A Thyroid Uptake Scan

Slices of homemade pizza with olives and peppers.

Image Credit: blackboard1965/iStock/Getty Images When getting ready to undergo a thyroid uptake scan, special dietary restrictions need to be followed in order to yield effective outcomes of the test. Radioactive iodine is injected or swallowed in a pill form to identify disorders of the thyroid gland. Iodine needs to be avoided in the diet to allow the radioactive iodine to be effectively utilized in the thyroid gland.

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Dietary Precautions

If you physician orders a thyroid uptake scan it is necessary to follow a low iodine diet. Do not take vitamins that contain iodine. The ingredient list on the label will indicate if iodine is part of the vitamin supplement. Avoid iodized salt. Limit consumption of fish, shellfish, milk, ice cream, yogurt, canned fruits, canned vegetables, cured meats, salted meats, white bread, tea and lemonade. Avoid salted snack foods such as pretzels, chips and nuts. Do not eat pizza, canned soups, or take-out foods from restaurants. Read the label to avoid foods that contain red dye such as medications, gelatin and hard candies.

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When to Start a Low Iodine Diet

The low iodine diet should be started at least one week before the scan is scheduled. The low iodine diet should be followed until otherwise instructed by the health care team. It is often recommended that the low iodine diet be followed for three days after the scan as a precaution.

Sample Meal Plan

Although, a low iodine diet is limiting, meal planning can be successfully accomplished. Having orange juice, hot cereal with fresh fruit and an egg on the side is a suitable breakfast option. Aim for a sandwich with turkey breast on wheat bread with lettuce and tomato with a side of carrots, fresh fruit and vanilla wafers as a healthy lunch option. For dinner, try baked chicken with white rice, fresh vegetables cooked or sauteed with fresh fruit on the side.

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  references & resources
  
      Radiology Info: Thyroid Scan and Uptake
    
      Harvard Health Publications: Thyroid Scan
    
      Columbia University Medical Center: New York Thyroid Center
    
      Thyroid Cancer Survivors' Association, Inc.
       




  references & resources
  
      Radiology Info: Thyroid Scan and Uptake
    
      Harvard Health Publications: Thyroid Scan
    
      Columbia University Medical Center: New York Thyroid Center
    
      Thyroid Cancer Survivors' Association, Inc.
    




Slices of homemade pizza with olives and peppers.

Image Credit: blackboard1965/iStock/Getty Images

Image Credit: blackboard1965/iStock/Getty Images

      Radiology Info: Thyroid Scan and Uptake
    
      Harvard Health Publications: Thyroid Scan
    
      Columbia University Medical Center: New York Thyroid Center
    
      Thyroid Cancer Survivors' Association, Inc.