ISSA Nutritionist Practice Exam

Which of the following can enhance the absorption of vitamin C?

1. High-fat meals

2. Bioflavonoids

3. Calcium supplements

4. Iron-rich foods

The correct answer is: Bioflavonoids

Bioflavonoids play a significant role in enhancing the absorption of vitamin C due to their complementary properties. These compounds, found in various fruits and vegetables, work synergistically with vitamin C, improving its stability and efficacy in the body. The presence of bioflavonoids can increase the retention of vitamin C, making it more bioavailable for absorption in the intestines. This interaction can also enhance the antioxidant capacity of vitamin C, leading to better health outcomes. While other options may have certain effects on nutrient absorption or metabolism, they do not specifically enhance the absorption of vitamin C. For example, high-fat meals often do not facilitate the uptake of water-soluble vitamins like vitamin C. Calcium supplements can compete with the absorption of certain other nutrients but do not have a recognized benefit for vitamin C absorption. Iron-rich foods are known to assist with iron absorption but do not impact vitamin C's effectiveness in the same manner that bioflavonoids do.