Final Answer:
Vitamin C improves children's ability to absorb iron.
b) Vitamin C
Step-by-step explanation:
Vitamin C plays a crucial role in improving children's ability to absorb iron. Iron exists in two forms: heme iron from animal sources and non-heme iron from plant sources. The body absorbs non-heme iron more efficiently when consumed with vitamin C-rich foods. Vitamin C enhances the absorption of non-heme iron by converting it into a more absorbable form, facilitating its uptake in the intestines.
When children consume iron-rich plant foods like lentils, beans, or fortified cereals, pairing them with vitamin C-rich foods such as citrus fruits, strawberries, or bell peppers can significantly enhance iron absorption. The combination forms a powerful duo, increasing the bioavailability of non-heme iron and supporting the body's iron stores. This becomes especially important in vegetarian or vegan diets where the primary iron source is non-heme iron.
Furthermore, vitamin C helps counteract inhibitors of iron absorption, such as phytates and tannins found in certain plant foods. By mitigating the impact of these inhibitors, vitamin C ensures a more effective absorption of iron, contributing to overall health and preventing iron deficiency, particularly in growing children who have increased iron needs for proper development.