Which nutrient interaction is commonly used in practice to help manage iron deficiency anemia?

• A. Calcium inhibits non-heme iron absorption.
• B. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) enhances non-heme iron absorption.
• C. Vitamin D inhibits iron absorption.
• D. Vitamin B12 has no effect on iron absorption.

Answer: (B)

Vitamin C enhances non-heme iron absorption. It acts by reducing ferric iron to ferrous iron and forming a soluble iron-ascorbate complex, which the intestine absorbs more readily. Clinically, iron therapy is often paired with vitamin C–rich foods or beverages to boost uptake, especially when the iron source is non-heme (plant-based). This is why citrus fruits or orange juice are commonly recommended with iron. Other nutrients don't provide this same absorption boost; for example, calcium can reduce non-heme iron absorption if eaten together with iron, and vitamin D or vitamin B12 don’t have a direct, beneficial effect on iron absorption.