New Cornell research reveals that adults of East Asian ancestry are more prone to elevated iron levels than Northern Europeans, increasing their risk for chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and liver disease. The studies, led by Professor Kimberly O’Brien and Alexa Barad, Ph.D., emphasize that dietary iron needs vary across populations due to genetic differences.
The research found that East Asians may have evolved to store more iron due to historically plant-based diets. However, modern dietary changes pose health risks. Men are particularly vulnerable, with symptoms often emerging after age 50. The findings call for more precise, population-specific dietary guidelines to prevent both iron deficiency and toxicity.
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