Which nutrient enhances non-heme iron absorption and can improve iron status when consumed with iron-rich foods?

Unlock all questions

This demo includes only 20 questions. Upgrade to access hundreds of questions, flashcards, exam simulations, and disable ads.

Full question bankExam simulationsFlashcards
From $24.99Unlock all

Prepare for the NANP Food and Nutrition Exam with comprehensive flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question includes hints and thorough explanations. Ensure your success on exam day!

Multiple Choice

Which nutrient enhances non-heme iron absorption and can improve iron status when consumed with iron-rich foods?

Explanation:
Vitamin C enhances non-heme iron absorption by acting as a reducing agent that converts ferric iron (Fe3+) to ferrous iron (Fe2+), and by forming a soluble iron-ascorbate complex that remains available for uptake in the intestine. This helps iron-rich, plant-based foods supply more usable iron, improving iron status when eaten together. The other nutrients don’t have this effect: vitamin D supports calcium metabolism, vitamin B12 is involved in red blood cell production, and calcium can actually interfere with iron absorption when consumed with iron-containing meals.

Vitamin C enhances non-heme iron absorption by acting as a reducing agent that converts ferric iron (Fe3+) to ferrous iron (Fe2+), and by forming a soluble iron-ascorbate complex that remains available for uptake in the intestine. This helps iron-rich, plant-based foods supply more usable iron, improving iron status when eaten together. The other nutrients don’t have this effect: vitamin D supports calcium metabolism, vitamin B12 is involved in red blood cell production, and calcium can actually interfere with iron absorption when consumed with iron-containing meals.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy