It’s said that you can have too much of a good thing. Working hard is commendable but workaholism can damage health and relationships. Rain is good for the earth but flooding is not. Exercise promotes health but overtraining risks injury.
Iron is an important micronutrient. Your body relies on it to make haemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that helps to carry oxygen around your body. But you can have too much of a good thing – excessive iron leads to a condition called haemochromatosis.
What is haemochromatosis?
Haemochromatosis is a genetic condition that causes the body to absorb too much iron from food. Over time, this iron builds up in organs like the liver, heart, and pancreas, potentially leading to serious health complications.
Symptoms of haemochromatosis are most common among people aged 30-60. They include:
- Fatigue
- Joint pain
- Irregular periods
- Mood disorders like depression and anxiety
- A bronze tinge to your skin (more noticeable if you tend to be pale).
Can a scan detect haemochromatosis?
Diagnosis typically starts with blood tests measuring ferritin (iron storage) and transferrin saturation. Genetic testing confirms whether you carry the HFE gene mutation linked to haemochromatosis.
An MRI scan may then be used to assess the extent of iron overload in your organs to inform your treatment.
What treatment options are available for haemochromatosis?
We manage haemochromatosis with a blend of medical treatment and dietary adjustments.
Medical treatment may include:
- Venesection – using a similar process to donating blood, we remove up to 500 mL of blood at regular intervals until your iron levels return to normal. This may need to be done once or twice a week for up to 18 months.
- Chelation therapy – tablets or infusions that bind excess iron for removal.
- Regular blood tests – close monitoring shows whether treatment is working.
How can a tailored diet help with haemochromatosis?
Your diet plays a pivotal role in managing haemochromatosis, complementing medical treatments.
A carefully planned haemochromatosis diet may mean:
- Reducing iron absorption: Limit the consumption of iron-rich foods like red meat, offal and fortified cereals. Instead, focus on lean proteins like chicken or fish.
- Avoiding Vitamin C during meals: Vitamin C enhances iron absorption, so it’s best to avoid supplements. To support your overall nutrition, you do need to have fruit juice or fruit and vegetables containing vitamin C. The amounts contained in these foods won’t significantly affect your iron levels.
- Incorporating natural inhibitors: Foods like tea, coffee, and dairy can help reduce iron absorption when consumed with meals.
- Balancing nutrients: Include plenty of fresh vegetables, whole grains, and legumes to maintain overall health.
Avoiding complications
If it’s not treated, haemochromatosis can lead to organ damage or serious health complications, including:
- Diabetes caused by damage to your pancreas
- Liver cancer
- Cirrhosis (scarring) of your liver.
How can we help?
If you have haemochromatosis, you may be referred to a gastroenterologist like Dr Nathan Connelly or Dr Matthew Mickenbecker at Moonee Valley Specialist Centre.
To assess any liver damage, we may recommend a liver scan. We’re one of the only private practices in Melbourne to conduct liver scans using a state-of-the-art device known as the FibroScan® 502 Touch. It provides vital information to guide treatment and reduce the risk of irreparable liver damage.
You need a referral from your GP to see one of our doctors but you can book your own liver scan whenever you wish.
Disclaimer
All information is general and not intended as a substitute for professional advice.
References
- Healthdirect, Haemochromatosis, https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/haemochromatosis, [Accessed 26 November 2024]
- Haemochromatosis Australia, https://haemochromatosis.org.au/haemochromatosis/, [Accessed 26 November 2024]
- AA MDS Foundation, Iron chelation, https://www.aamds.org/treatment/iron-chelation#, [Accessed 26 November 2024]
