Final answer:
The claim that iron is absorbed by the body regardless of iron stores is false. Iron absorption is carefully regulated based on the body's needs, with mechanisms that increase or decrease iron uptake from the intestine as required.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement 'Iron is absorbed by the body whether iron stores are high or not' is false. Iron absorption is a regulated process that depends on the body's iron levels. Iron is absorbed into mucosal cells via active transport and binds to the protein ferritin, forming iron-ferritin complexes that store the iron. When the body's iron levels are sufficient, there is decreased uptake of iron from the intestine. In contrast, when the body's iron demand increases, such as during anemia or chronic bleeding, there's an increased uptake of iron from the intestine and an accelerated release into the bloodstream. Also, females typically have more iron transport proteins in their intestines due to the iron loss during menstruation. These complex mechanisms ensure that the amount of iron absorbed from the diet is tailored to the body's current requirements.