Does alcohol cause haemochromotosis

Answer 1

No. Hemochromatosis is caused by the buildup of excess iron in the body, due to a condition that causes too much iron to be absorbed from food in the intestines. It is a serious disease that can lead to liver, pancreatic and heart damage, among other problems.

Since alcohol contributes to similar problems, especially liver and pancreatic damage, and can easily accelerate the necrosis associated with hemochromatosis, it is recommended that people suffering from the disease avoid alcohol completely. To do otherwise could easily be fatal over the long term, and will certainly help create severe problems.

If you are diagnosed with hemochromatosis you must follow a special diet so your iron levels do not increase. The diet prohibits alcohol, especially for patients who have liver damage. You will also be told to avoid iron pills or vitamins containing iron, vitamin supplements, iron cookware, raw seafood (cooked is fine), or fortified processed foods such as 100% iron breakfast cereals.