Hemochromatosis
Hemochromatosis occurs when too much iron accumulates in the body. Although iron is essential for life, excessive iron can be very dangerous because iron is easily oxidized. Iron reacts easily with organic molecules to create highly reactive oxygen species that contribute to high levels of oxidative stress in the body. The result can be free radical damage to liver, pancreas, heart, joints and skin.
Hemochromatosis causes cirrhosis of liver, diabetes, arthritis, cardiomyopathy, and hormone problems, including hypothyroidism and hypogonadism. Iron has also been implicated in oxidative diseases like Alzheimer’s, in which high levels of iron contribute to neuron damage.
The following conditions and circumstances can also cause iron overload
- Iron overload anemias, like thalassemia major
- Chronic liver disease, including hepatitis and alcoholic liver disease
- Excess supplemental iron
- Transfusions
- The most common complications of hemochromatosis are cirrhosis and liver cancer.
Role of Noni
Excessive iron, whether genetic or secondary to another condition, causes high levels of damaging free radicals that contribute to endothelial dysfunction and the formation of scar tissue in vital organs like liver. It is strongly recommended that people with any form of iron overload take proactive steps to maintain healthy antioxidant supplies. Also, because iron overload is linked to reduced energy generation within cells (as measured by the levels of adenosine triphosphate, the cell’s main fuel source), it is important to maximize mitochondrial energy production. Noni is an effective antioxidant as it contains all the antioxidant vitamins; all trace minerals and 150 and above phytochemicals. Noni also helps to synthesize more antioxidant enzymes in our body.
Patients with hereditary hemochromatosis have decreased antioxidant levels and increased lipid peroxidation. Supplementation with vitamins E and A may be beneficial. Noni contains rich amounts of Vitamin E and Vitamin A.
Glutathione : Glutathione is one of the body’s main internal antioxidants. Glutathione levels are rapidly depleted in the event of severe oxidative stress, especially in liver. Glutathione depletion in the liver is related to development of cirrhosis and liver failure. Noni enhances glutathione level in our body and thus reduces oxidative stress.
Calcium, magnesium, and zinc : A practical way to lower iron is to interfere with its absorption from food. Minerals such as calcium, magnesium and zinc interfere with iron absorption. Noni contains all those mineral in natural form.
Recommended Dosage
Divine Noni Concentrate
5ml morning and 5ml evening for 3 days. Then
10ml morning and 10ml evening for next 3 days. Then
15ml morning and 15ml evening for next 8 months.
