Radioactive iodine treatment On 17 2 2024

Would like clarity on diet before treatment it’s very conflicting 

like can you eat breakfast cereal and which 

can you use oxo cubes to make a liquid to help 

I no most of the foods not to eat it’s what I can eat is conflicting 

  • Hi barrowden, and thank you for your post 

    You may have seen our information already with dietary advice before having radioactive iodine, which can be found here.  There is also some very good information on the British Thyroid Foundation on what foods can and can't be eaten and they also provide some meal suggestions here.

    In terms of what cereal to eat porridge is suggested with water or a milk substitute, corn flakes can be eaten, and oatmeal. Things like bouillon stock cubes do have iodine in them, but after searching I cannot find information that suggests it is in oxo cubes.

    It is important to check the nutritional facts label which will say whether or not there is iodine and anything that mentions potassium iodate or calcium iodate should be avoided. Anything you are not sure of it is always best to check with the team at the hospital such as your specialist nurse (CNS) if you have one as they know your situation. 

    I hope this is useful. Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Good luck with your treatment, take care.

    All the best

    Jemma