Hemochromatosis causes the body to absorb too much iron from foods. To minimize the symptoms and reduce the risk of complications, people can follow a hemochromatotis diet.
There are two types of hemochromatosis: primary and secondary. Primary hemochromatosis is genetic, while secondary hemochromatosis can result from health conditions, such as liver disease and anemia.
Most people absorb and lose about 1 milligram (mg) of iron per day. People with hemochromatosis can absorb up to 4 mg of iron each day.
An excessive buildup of iron in the organs can be toxic and cause damage. However, it is possible to maintain healthy iron levels through dietary changes.
The goal of treating hemochromatosis is to reduce the amount of iron in the body to normal levels.
As well as eating only foods that are low in iron, there are other factors to consider. For example, some dietary components affect how much iron the body absorbs.
Examples include:
- Iron type: Heme iron is easier for the body to absorb than nonheme iron. Plant-based foods contain only nonheme iron, whereas meat, poultry, fish, and seafood contain both heme and nonheme iron.
- Vitamin C: This vitamin
enhances nonheme iron absorption. - Calcium: This mineral can reduce iron absorption.
- Phytates, tannins, and polyphenols: These dietary components limit the absorption of nonheme iron.
In addition to dietary changes, doctors
Currently, the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) and the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) offer guidelines for the hemochromatosis diet. While there are some conflicting recommendations, the guidelines largely offer similar suggestions.
Fruits and vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are an important part of any healthful diet. They are rich in vitamins and minerals that are vital for the body to function properly. A
Some fruits and vegetables, including spinach, mushrooms, and olives, are high in nonheme iron. However, as nonheme iron is
Many fruits and vegetables also contain substances that reduce iron absorption. Some examples include:
- spinach
- kale
- rhubarb
- strawberries
- beetroot
- leafy greens
- edamame beans
Certain proteins
Lean protein is an essential part of a healthful, balanced diet, but many sources of lean protein contain iron.
Preferable sources of protein on a hemochromatosis diet
- lean white meat, such as poultry
- fish
- eggs
Additionally, soy proteins, such as tofu, tempeh, soybeans, soy milk, and edamame beans can help to inhibit iron absorption.
Wholegrains
Wholegrains contain phytates, which can make it difficult for the body to absorb iron. A
It is advisable to avoid sourdough bread, as the bacteria that ferments it produces lactic acid, which can enhance iron absorption.
Tea and coffee
Tea and coffee contain tannins, which are types of polyphenol plant compounds.
The tannins in tea and coffee may reduce iron absorption. Drinking these beverages is another way for people with hemochromatosis to manage their iron levels.
Calcium-rich foods
Examples of calcium-rich foods include:
- yogurt
- milk
- cheese
- tofu
- green leafy vegetables, such as broccoli
Doctors generally advise people with hemochromatosis to avoid iron-fortified foods and supplements. Other foods to consider avoiding
Red meat
Most red meats, including beef, lamb, and venison, are a
If a person wishes to consume read meat, they can pair it with foods that reduce iron absorption.
Raw shellfish
Shellfish, such as mussels, oysters, and clams, sometimes contain
People with hemochromatosis are more susceptible to vibriosis infection. Therefore, it is important to cook any shellfish thoroughly to kill the bacteria. People can also reduce their risk of infection by discarding any raw shellfish that have open shells and avoiding eating any shellfish that remain unopened after cooking.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C increases the absorption of nonheme iron. Due to this, people with hemochromatosis should avoid vitamin C supplements.
The amount of vitamin C in fruits and vegetables is generally too low to have a significant effect on iron absorption. These foods also contain a variety of other nutrients that are important in a healthful diet.
However, eating foods or drinking beverages high in vitamin C alongside iron-rich foods may enhance iron absorption. For this reason, pairing iron-rich foods with vitamin C-rich foods may not be the best choice for those with hemochromatosis.
Fortified foods and iron supplements
Fortified and enriched foods contain added vitamins and minerals that aim to improve nutrition. For example, many cereal products are fortified with calcium, vitamin D, and iron. Similarly, iron supplements aim to increase a person’s iron intake.
As such, it is advisable for people with hemochromatosis to avoid iron-fortified foods or supplements containing iron.
Alcohol
Consuming alcohol can promote the absorption of iron. Additionally, digesting alcohol causes the body to produce substances that damage the liver.
As such, a doctor may
Diet can affect iron absorption, but whether it has much of an effect on hemochromatosis is unclear.
According to the
Additionally, the
- iron supplements
- vitamin C supplements
- raw shellfish
- high alcohol use
Treatment for hemochromatosis usually
Phlebotomy
Doctors remove excess iron by drawing about 1 pint of blood at a time. They will regularly order blood tests to check iron levels.
Chelation therapy
Chelation therapy removes iron using pills or injections. These treatments are necessary for people who are unable to undergo blood removal due to conditions such as anemia or heart problems.
Chelation therapies are less effective than phlebotomy in removing iron.
Some FAQs about the hemochromatosis diet may include:
What foods should you avoid if you have hemochromatosis?
People with hemochromatosis should try to limit iron-fortified or iron-rich foods, such as red meat. It may also be helpful to avoid pairing these foods with sources rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits. This is because vitamin C can increase iron absorption.
However, it is important to note that diet only has a small effect on iron levels in comparison to the medical treatments for hemochromatosis.
Is chicken bad for hemochromatosis?
Many protein sources may also contain iron. Despite this, people following the hemochromatosis diet do not need to avoid animal protein. However, it is advisable to opt for lean animal proteins that contain lower amount of iron, such as chicken.
Can you eat cheese if you have hemochromatosis?
Calcium-rich foods, such as cheese, can help to inhibit the absorption of iron. As such, it can be helpful for those following a hemochromatosis diet to include foods such as cheese.
What foods lower your iron levels?
Foods that can reduce the body’s ability to absorb iron include soy proteins, such as tofu, beverages containing tannins, such as tea and coffee, wholegrain fibers, such as bran, and calcium-rich foods, such as cheese.
Hemochromatosis causes people to absorb too much iron from foods.
The goal of treating hemochromatosis is to remove excess iron from the blood through phlebotomy or chelation therapy. Avoiding vitamin C supplements, raw shellfish, and high alcohol use may also be helpful.
Eating foods that are lower in iron or reduce iron absorption may also help keep iron levels within normal limits. However, reducing dietary iron is not as effective as other hemochromatosis treatments.