Iron absorption dietary counseling involves which vitamin to enhance absorption?

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

Answer: (A)

Vitamin C boosts iron absorption by converting ferric iron to ferrous iron and forming a soluble iron–ascorbate complex that stays dissolved in the gut, making it easier for the intestines to take up iron. This effect is especially helpful for non-heme iron from plant sources, which isn’t absorbed as readily on its own. In dietary counseling for pregnancy, encourage pairing iron-rich foods with vitamin C–rich foods in the same meal—think citrus fruits, tomatoes, or bell peppers with beans or fortified cereals—to maximize absorption. The other options don’t enhance iron uptake; vitamin D and vitamin K don’t have a direct role in iron absorption, and calcium can actually hinder iron absorption when eaten together.