Hemochromatosis is a genetic disorder that causes too much iron to build up in your body. So it should be properly treated, to avoid severe organ and joint damage that can cause death.

Adopting a special diet may not be necessary but to be on the safe side I will recommend dietary management of the condition with the help of your healthcare provider. Not only will it be helpful in your treatment, you will be leading a healthy and happy life.

Hemochromatosis is caused by too much iron in the blood; restricting foods high in iron, limiting foods that can increase the absorption of iron, and focusing on foods that provide protein and other nutrients is the target.

Since iron is an essential nutrient that the body cannot make and must be obtained from food, only around 10% to 13% of the iron that is eaten is absorbed in the gut. The hepcidin hormone in people with hemochromatosis is dysfunctional causing the increase of iron absorption overload to as much as 400%.

The intake of non-heme iron is not really our focus. Heme iron is what we are targeting to decrease its intake because it is the most easily absorbed in the gut. It is mostly found in red meats and organ meats.  Limiting foods that increase the absorption of non-heme iron is important.

To meet the unique nutritional needs of a person with hemochromatosis: Whole grains, rice, and beans

The consumption of tea and coffee, fresh fruits, vegetables, and protein from sources that are low in iron. I encourage eating organic foods for their nutrient value. 

What not to eat

Red meat consumption

Animal fat and sugar

Use of alcohol

Increased intake of whole grains

Food additives with ferric EDTA or chelated iron

Avoid foods high in vitamin C, it has been shown to promote iron absorption in the body.Limit citrus fruits and the following.

 What to Eat

A well planned diet adjustment is necessary with the care of a healthcare provider, and frequent lab work to ensure your iron levels are within normal limits. There are foods to eat, and others that need to be avoided or limited. 

What to Eat

• Whole grains

• Beans and legumes

• Yogurt

• Cheese

• Broccoli

• Poultry

• Cocoa

• Fish (including canned fish)

• Eggs

• Rhubarb

• Nuts and seeds

• Avocado

• Tofu

• Coffee

• Spinach

• Figs

• Apples

• Olive oil

• Black tea

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