Dietary recommendations for persons with hemochromatosis

It is important to stress that the following recommendations are not based on controlled dietary studies but are empirically based on the current knowledge of the iron content in foods and the mechanisms of intestinal food iron absorption [10]. The proposed recommendations shown in Table 4 are adapted from the official Danish dietary recommendations 2021 [92, 100]. The modifications express the views of the author.

Figure 2 shows the Danish food pyramid created by Coop Danmark A/S in 1976 and last updated in 2011 [105]. The recommendations are also elaborated to be climate-friendly. Apparently, the recommendations are close to those of an anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative diet, and the food pyramid also appears to be suitable for persons with hemochromatosis with a few modifications.

The Danish Coop food pyramid 2011 [105] shows the recommended consumption of foods in healthy persons during a 14-day period. Eat most foods from the bottom, less from the middle and least from the top shelf. Modifications for persons with hemochromatosis. Top shelf: Do not eat beef or pork, but white poultry meat, no more than twice a week. Do not eat liver or products containing liver (liver pate, liver spread and liver pastry) or other offal. Do not eat products containing blood, e.g., blood sausage and game meat. Eat fish two to four times per week. Avoid shellfish. Eggs, one or two per day, are allowed, unless hyperlipidemia or cardiovascular disease is present. Middle shelf: Consume low-fat milk products including cheese. Drink milk with meals. Fruits, berries and juices rich in vitamin C and organic fruit acids should be consumed between meals. Bottom shelf: Drink a cup of green- or black tea, coffee, or milk with the meals. Alternatively, water or non-alcoholic beer.