Question

Iron found as a component of plant sources is called ________ iron, and iron is best absorbed in this form _________.

1) Heme
2) Non-heme
3) Ferrous
4) Ferric

Answer 1

Iron in plant sources is called non-heme iron, but the heme iron found in animal sources is absorbed more efficiently by the body. Heme iron is the form best absorbed.

Step-by-step explanation:

Iron found in plant sources is referred to as non-heme iron, and this is in contrast to heme iron, which is found in animal food sources such as meat, poultry, and fish. However, heme iron is actually absorbed more efficiently by the body than non-heme iron. The body assimilates iron after consumption, transferring it through various forms such as the ferric (Fe³⁺) or ferrous (Fe²⁺) ions and storing it in compounds like ferritin and hemosiderin. Transferrin is responsible for transporting iron in the bloodstream to be utilized or stored.

Nevertheless, the question inquires about the optimal form of iron for absorption, which is not in the non-heme form typically found in plant sources but rather the heme form. Therefore, the correct answers are: 1) Non-heme 2) Heme.