Nickel sensitivity, and nickel in food?
- Cheyenne van Eikeren
- May 10
- 4 min read
Updated: May 20
Did you know that many everyday foods, even healthy ones, can contain nickel? Nickel is a metal that naturally occurs in the soil, and as a result, it also ends up in our food. For some people, a high level of nickel exposure can lead to complaints such as eczema, fatigue, digestive problems, or even hormonal imbalances.
That's why it's important to become aware of what you eat, how you cook, and where nickel can accumulate.
Which foods contain high levels of nickel?
Some foods naturally contain high levels of nickel. These include:
Chocolate & cocoa
Legumes, such as lentils, chickpeas, and soybeans
Nuts & seeds, such as flaxseed, poppy seeds, sesame seeds
Dried fruit
Whole grain products & cereals, such as oats, barley, buckwheat
Shellfish & crustaceans
Canned foods & ready-made products
Young vegetables and fresh fruit may also contain nickel, but usually in lower amounts. Therefore, it's still important to eat a varied and fresh diet.
Moderate and Low Nickel Levels
To maintain balance, you can still consume foods with moderate nickel levels in moderation, such as broccoli, onions, bananas, endive, asparagus, coffee, and beer.
Low-nickel foods include:
Iceberg lettuce, arugula, beetroot, Swiss chard, zucchini, pumpkin, eggplant
Grapes, apples, citrus fruits
White rice, white sourdough bread
Eggs, milk, chicken, and beef
Nickel is not only in food
Nickel can also end up in your food through the kitchen:
Aluminum and stainless-steel pans can release nickel, especially when cooking acidic foods.
Quookers, coffee machines, and metal water pipes can leak nickel.
Tip: Prefer pans made of ceramic, glass, or cast iron, and avoid storing acidic foods in metal pans for long periods.
Important: Every body is different
Not everyone reacts the same way to nickel. Your physiology, digestion, hormonal balance, and overall health play a role in how your body processes and eliminates nickel. A nickel-restricted diet can provide relief, but it must be tailored to your situation. Being too strict may not be sustainable, and a one-sided diet can cause other problems.
What can a mesologist do in case of nickel overload?
A mesologist looks at the whole body, diet, and lifestyle. In case of nickel overload, a mesologist can:
Investigate whether your symptoms are related to nickel intolerance.
Map out how your body processes and eliminates nickel.
Provide advice on diet that suits your body.
Offer supporting therapies for the liver, intestines, and immune system.
Help restore balance with natural remedies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the symptoms of nickel overload?
Eczema, itching, fatigue, headaches, digestive problems, or hormonal imbalances may indicate nickel overload.
How do I know if I'm sensitive to nickel?Through mesological testing, it can be determined if your symptoms are related to nickel. This includes electro-physiological tests.
Can I never eat chocolate or nuts again?
No, it's about balance. After reducing your nickel overload, you can learn what your body can tolerate and how you can occasionally enjoy these foods without symptoms.
Can I start with a nickel-restricted diet on my own?
Yes, but it is advisable to do this under guidance. A one-sided diet can cause new deficiencies. A mesologist can support you in this process.
What is the difference between an allergy and overload?
An allergy is an immediate immune response. Overload involves the accumulation or impaired processing of nickel, which can lead to subtler but chronic symptoms.
What does a mesologist do when nickel overload is suspected?
A mesologist investigates whether your symptoms are related to heavy metal overload, such as nickel. This involves an in-depth case history, physical examination, and specific mesological tests to identify disturbances in the body.
How can I know if I have nickel overload?
Nickel overload is often not directly detected through regular blood tests. Mesological tests can provide clues as to whether your body is overloaded with nickel or struggling to eliminate it. We also look at symptom patterns, diet, skin reactions, and your detoxification capacity.
Can a mesologist help detoxify nickel from the body?
Yes. A mesologist supports the body's detoxification processes, especially through the liver, kidneys, intestines, and lymphatic system. We work with natural remedies such as phytotherapy, orthomolecular supplements, and dietary advice tailored to your unique constitution.
Can a mesologist treat my skin issues or digestive problems related to nickel overload?
Absolutely. Skin rashes, eczema, itching, as well as digestive issues like bloating or diarrhea, may be linked to nickel overload. A mesologist seeks the origin of these symptoms and provides natural interventions, not just suppressing them.
Is it necessary to avoid all nickel-containing foods?
Not necessarily. Avoiding nickel temporarily can help relieve the burden on your body. A mesologist works with you to determine whether this is useful and guides you through the recovery process, so you may tolerate more in the future.
How long does it take before I notice improvements?
This depends on the degree of overload, your overall health, and how your body responds to treatment. Some people experience improvement within weeks, while others require a longer process. The approach is always individually tailored.
Do you suspect that nickel is causing your complaints?Make an appointment for a mesological consultation. Together, we will look at the cause of your symptoms and create a personalized treatment plan.

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