Intestinal absorption of iron alone and in combination with authentic or natural vitamin C and carotene

Abstract

The effect of vitamin C and carotene derived from authentic or natural sources on intestinal iron absorption was studied. Vitamin C caused slight enhancement to iron absorption, while carotene hindered it. The three juices tested, namely orange, parsley and pepper, which were found to be rich in these two vitamins, hindered intestinal iron absorption to different extents. It was recommended that patients suffering from iron deficiency are not supplied with nutrients rich in carotene particulary during iron therapy.

Effect of Vitamin C on Copper and Iron Status in Men and Guinea Pigs.

“…Fe2+ is absorbed more than Fe3+ (11), and the reducing action of vitamin C in the lumen might be important in iron absorption. El-Hawary and coworkers have found that vitamin C acts as a preservative for iron, maintaining it in the ferrous form, enhances the utilization of iron after being absorbed and causes improvement in iron utilization (12).…”