Hemochromatosis Cookbook

Hemochromatosis is a genetic disorder that causes too much iron to build up in your body. If it is not properly treated, it can cause severe organ and joint damage and even death. The hemochromatosis diet enables a person with hemochromatosis to avoid foods that are high in iron as well as those that can increase the absorption of iron. The diet consists of foods that will provide ample protein and other nutrients to maintain optimal health without overloading the body with iron. The hemochromatosis diet is used to decrease the intake of heme iron, the type of iron most easily absorbed in the gut. Prime sources include red meats and organ meats. Less focus is placed on reducing the intake of non-heme iron found in vegetables, fruits, and grains. These foods are considered more beneficial than not. Instead, foods that can increase the absorption of non-heme iron may be limited or avoided.