###Human: Kindly suggest diet for my 18 months old son with beta thalassemia intermedia. ###Assistant: Hello. As your child is suffering from thalassemia intermedia, you should avoid giving iron rich food and food that leads to an increase in iron absorption.The foods which decrease its absorption are, (i) cereals and (ii) dairy products. The foods which increase the absorption are, (i) fruit and vegetables rich in vitamin C, (ii) meat, fish, shellfish and poultry and (iii) pickles, sauerkraut, soy sauce, vinegar, and alcohol. You can also supplement the child with folic acid 1 mg a day. Give nutritious diet and vegetarian protein sources, avoid meat and liver. Have a regular follow-up with your pediatrician for Hb level and iron overload.