Question

Some nutrients can enhance or inhibit the absorption of minerals. Match the nutrient with its absorption-enhancing or -inhibiting action on another mineral:

Zinc:
a) Enhances calcium absorption
b) Inhibits iron absorption
c) Enhances magnesium absorption
d) Inhibits potassium absorption

Vitamin C:
a) Enhances calcium absorption
b) Inhibits iron absorption
c) Enhances magnesium absorption
d) Inhibits potassium absorption

Answer 1

Zinc inhibits iron absorption, while Vitamin C enhances iron absorption. Other relationships between these nutrients and the minerals listed are not well-established as enhancing or inhibiting based on the options provided.

Step-by-step explanation:

The absorption of minerals is a complex process that can be affected by the presence of other nutrients. Specifically:

• Zinc has been shown to inhibit iron absorption when both minerals are taken together in high amounts, as zinc competes with iron for absorption pathways. It does not have a well-established direct relationship with the absorption of calcium, magnesium, or potassium in the listed options.
• Vitamin C, a well-known antioxidant, is recognized for enhancing the absorption of iron, particularly non-heme iron found in plant foods, by reducing it to a form that is easier for the body to absorb. It does not have a clear role in enhancing or inhibiting calcium, magnesium, or potassium absorption as suggested.

Thus, the correct matches based on the choices provided are:

1. Zinc: b) Inhibits iron absorption
2. Vitamin C: b) Enhances iron absorption