Which nutrient enhances the absorption of non-heme iron?

Which nutrient enhances the absorption of non-heme iron?

• A. Vitamin C
• B. Vitamin D
• C. Calcium
• D. Riboflavin

Answer: (A)

Vitamin C enhances the absorption of non-heme iron because it reduces ferric iron (Fe3+) to the more soluble ferrous form (Fe2+) and forms a soluble complex that stays available for absorption in the small intestine. This helps plant-based iron, which is non-heme, be taken up more efficiently, especially when eaten with vitamin C–rich foods like citrus fruits, peppers, or berries. Non-heme iron absorption can be limited by compounds such as phytates or polyphenols and by calcium, so vitamin C helps counteract some of these barriers by keeping iron soluble and usable for transport into the bloodstream. In contrast, vitamin D mainly influences calcium and bone metabolism and doesn’t directly boost iron uptake; calcium itself can actually compete with iron absorption when consumed together. Riboflavin supports energy metabolism and isn’t known for directly enhancing iron absorption.

Vitamin C enhances the absorption of non-heme iron because it reduces ferric iron (Fe3+) to the more soluble ferrous form (Fe2+) and forms a soluble complex that stays available for absorption in the small intestine. This helps plant-based iron, which is non-heme, be taken up more efficiently, especially when eaten with vitamin C–rich foods like citrus fruits, peppers, or berries. Non-heme iron absorption can be limited by compounds such as phytates or polyphenols and by calcium, so vitamin C helps counteract some of these barriers by keeping iron soluble and usable for transport into the bloodstream. In contrast, vitamin D mainly influences calcium and bone metabolism and doesn’t directly boost iron uptake; calcium itself can actually compete with iron absorption when consumed together. Riboflavin supports energy metabolism and isn’t known for directly enhancing iron absorption.