Tea, coffee and iron absorption

[greeneyedmonster]

I have been told that I have excess iron which needs to be monitored so I have been looking at ways to limit the absorption. Does anyone know if tea/coffee actually does this as there are a lot of conflicting views out there. Also red wine seems to have the same effect...which was good news, but as it also contains iron I'm a bit confused?

[Sqad]

\\\\I have been told that I have excess iron\\\

By whom?

On what evidence?

[greeneyedmonster]

Sorry was trying to keep my question brief-it was by my GP following a blood test.

[Sqad]

Ah! OK....I shouldn't get too "hung up" on what foods contain iron, as diet will have little effect on your iron in the blood. But in answer to your question......coffee and tea contain small amounts of iron...if any at all.
Red wine contains a little more, but no big deal.

Red meat is the one to avoid.

[greeneyedmonster]

Thanks for that...but I'm even more confused now! If diet doesn't play a part then how did it get there? I'm stumped! I am looking for ways to stop any more iron being absorbed so was thinking, tea, coffee, red wine etc.

[Sqad]

I didn't say that diet doesn't play a part, I said that diet will have little effect on your iron in your blood....raised iron.

Of course it depends upon how high your iron is and by the sounds of things....not too bad.
As you GP hasn't arranged further tests, i would assume that he is not too worried either.

[greeneyedmonster]

He has actually. I have an appointment today so was trying to get as much info as I can so I can sound like I know what I'm talking about as it's come as a bit of a surprise. Thanks a lot.

[Sqad]

:-)