Do i need a special diet with porphyria?

Probably not: There are different types of porphyrias and most of them are not affected by dietary manipulation. There is some evidence that a high carbohydrate diet will alleviate some of the acute attacks. All this should be coordinated through a physician who deals with this type of metabolic problem.

No: There is no special or particular diet required or recommended for persons with porphyria. Rather, the principles of good and sensible nutrition apply. These principles call for a varied and balanced diet, particularly with avoidance of over-nutrition. Consumption of too many calories, in excess of daily needs for calorie and energy consumption, as well as too little can lead to exacerbations.