Iron exists in two forms: heme iron and non-heme iron.
Sources of Heme Iron:
Heme iron is found in red meat, fish, and the darker parts of chicken and turkey, such as the liver and kidneys. It is highly absorbed by the body. Iron absorption is reduced when these foods are consumed together with milk, yogurt, cheese, or cream. Therefore, dairy products should preferably be consumed separately from iron-rich meals.
Non-Heme Iron:
Non-heme iron is found in many foods, including egg yolks, chocolate, grains, legumes, vegetables, fruits, potatoes, carrots, and dried fruits such as raisins, dried peaches, dried plums, and dried figs. The absorption of non-heme iron is strongly influenced by the overall diet.
Foods That Increase Non-Heme Iron Absorption:
1- Foods rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, parsley, watercress, leeks, and bell peppers. Children with thalassemia should avoid consuming fruits and vegetables together with meals unless otherwise advised by their healthcare provider.
2- Various types of meat
3- Pickled foods
Foods That Decrease Non-Heme Iron Absorption:
1- Whole grains
2- Tea and coffee
3- Dairy products
4- Soy
5- Carbonated soft drinks
Essential Vitamins for Children with Thalassemia:
1) Vitamin E: Found in vegetable oils such as olive and soybean oil, dairy products, grains, walnuts, and hazelnuts.
2) Vitamin C: Found in lemon juice, apples, pears, bananas, oranges, tomatoes, and other foods. These foods should be consumed at appropriate intervals.
3) Flavonoids: Found in tea, fruits, and vegetables.
4) Carotenoids: Found in carrots and squash.
Iron-Rich Foods That Children with Thalassemia Should Avoid:
1) Red meat, particularly beef, veal, heart, and liver, due to their iron content. Fish and chicken are recommended instead, and vegetables should not be consumed together with meat-containing meals.
2) Legumes, particularly lentils and beans
3) Vegetables cooked by steaming may retain more iron than vegetables that are boiled and whose cooking water is discarded.
4) Foods cooked with a small amount of water for a shorter period may retain more iron than foods cooked in a large amount of water for a longer period.
5) Pistachios
Foods Low in Iron That Can Be Consumed Without Restriction:
1) Fruits
2) Dairy products
3) Jelly
4) Peanuts
5) Mayonnaise
6) Olives
7) Honey
Compiled by: Shaghayegh Shabani
Nutritionist and Dietitian
Hazrat Ali Asghar Children's Hospital
