Which nutrient enhances iron absorption when consumed together?

Which nutrient enhances iron absorption when consumed together?

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

Answer: (C)

Vitamin C enhances iron absorption by keeping iron in a soluble, reduced form in the gut. It donates electrons to ferric iron (Fe3+), converting it to ferrous iron (Fe2+) and forming a soluble complex that remains available for uptake in the small intestine, especially for non-heme iron from plant sources. This pairing in the same meal significantly increases how much iron is absorbed. Other nutrients listed don’t have this direct boosting effect: calcium can actually hinder iron absorption when eaten together, while vitamin D and vitamin A influence iron status more indirectly and do not improve gut uptake of non-heme iron to the same extent.

Vitamin C enhances iron absorption by keeping iron in a soluble, reduced form in the gut. It donates electrons to ferric iron (Fe3+), converting it to ferrous iron (Fe2+) and forming a soluble complex that remains available for uptake in the small intestine, especially for non-heme iron from plant sources. This pairing in the same meal significantly increases how much iron is absorbed. Other nutrients listed don’t have this direct boosting effect: calcium can actually hinder iron absorption when eaten together, while vitamin D and vitamin A influence iron status more indirectly and do not improve gut uptake of non-heme iron to the same extent.