Dietary guidelines for nickel allergy sufferers – restricted and advisable food choices
Olivia Davis
2026-03-23
4 min. read
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Nickel sensitivity represents one of the more common allergic conditions affecting both children and adults. In Poland, prior to 2000, it was diagnosed far less frequently than in the United States or Western European countries. However, over the past few decades, the incidence rates have gradually aligned with Western standards.
Allergy to nickel
It is estimated that about 17% of adults and 8% of children are allergic to nickel and that it is more common in women. Nickel is one of the most common metals after iron. It is therefore impossible to completely exclude it from both the diet and the environment. Therefore, it is necessary to observe dietary and lifestyle rules to minimize contact with the sensitive element.
A dietary allergy to nickel
People with a nickel allergy have a diet with the greatest possible restriction, also known as the LND (Low Nickel Diet). This diet is intended to limit foods high in nickel and to exclude contact with items and detergents containing nickel. The LND diet can greatly alleviate uncomfortable allergy symptoms such as skin infections or joints. Following the rules also helps to improve the overall state of the body and the quality of life of the allergic organism.
The LND diet Prohibited products
Persons suffering from a nickel allergy should eliminate from their diet products such as cherries, nuts, almonds, peanuts, canned corn, preserved vegetables, products containing oats, including oatmeal, melted cheeses, ketchup and tomato concentrate, processed margarines, chocolate, coffee, strong tea, cocoa, wine, especially beer, whole grains and whole grain products, peas, beans, maple, watermelon, tuna, seafood, preserves, allergies to flaxseeds, salted fruit, pulses, soybeans and sharp drinks.
The LND diet recommended products
The diet of people with allergies should contain a lot of animal products and their products. However, eggs and dairy products are welcome. Numerous studies have shown that the less processed the less nickel the food contains. People with a nickel allergy should use full-fat products with the lowest degree of processing possible. But it is not possible to completely eliminate a portion of the diet. Products that can be eaten without allergy restrictions include: eggs, meat, poultry, fresh fruit, blood butter, fish, milk, natural yogurt, rice, pasta and nicotine products, as well as the use of popcorn, corn syrup, pepper, peppers, onions, beans, beef and cabbage.