Guide to Foods Low in Iron for Hemochromatosis Management

Foods and Drinks That Promote or Inhibit Iron Absorption

As you craft a low-iron diet, keep another important factor in mind: the foods and drinks you consume together. Certain food and drink pairings can either promote or inhibit iron absorption, depending on the nutrients they contain.

Vitamin C is one key nutrient to watch out for.

“When vitamin C is consumed alongside iron-containing foods (especially non-heme iron), iron absorption is enhanced,” says Leverich. Therefore, you’ll want to avoid meals and snacks that match vitamin C- and iron-rich foods. For example, with a dinner of beef fajitas (which contain heme iron), rather than adding high-vitamin C bell peppers, try using other veggies that are low in vitamin C, like onions or mushrooms.

High-calcium foods include dairy products, leafy greens, soybeans, nuts, and seeds.

Dr. Tubb suggests minimizing iron absorption by getting a mix of iron and calcium in a single meal. This could look like flavoring a lentil salad with goat cheese rather than tomatoes. Or try an herbed yogurt sauce atop your favorite fish.

Since many foods with phytates are high in important nutrients like fiber, talk to your doctor or dietitian about how much of these foods to include in your diet.