We study nonlinear Helmholtz equations with sign-changing diffusion coefficients on bounded domains. The existence of an orthonormal basis of eigenfunctions is established making use of weak T-coercivity theory. All eigenvalues are proved to be bifurcation points and the bifurcating branches are investigated both theoretically and numerically. In a one-dimensional model example we obtain the existence of infinitely many bifurcating branches that are mutually disjoint, unbounded, and consist of solutions with a fixed nodal pattern. We also extend the numerics to a Drude model.