Which of the following foods increase iron absorption, except?

Appeared in: NORCET 2 -2021 (Shift-2)

Explanation

Curd is a dairy product that is a rich source of calcium and also contains casein.
Both calcium and casein are known inhibitors of iron absorption.
Calcium competes with iron for absorption in the small intestine, effectively reducing the bioavailability of iron from the meal.
Therefore, consuming curd with an iron-rich meal does not increase, but rather decreases, the amount of iron the body can absorb.

Option A: Orange is a citrus fruit rich in Vitamin C (ascorbic acid).
Option B: This is a broad category of fruits, including oranges and limes, that are well-known for their high Vitamin C content.
Option C: Amla (Indian gooseberry) is one of the most potent natural sources of Vitamin C.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Factors affecting dietary iron absorption as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses play a key role in dietary counseling for patients with iron-deficiency anemia.
It is crucial to advise patients to pair iron-rich foods or supplements with a source of Vitamin C, like orange juice, to maximize absorption.
Patients should also be taught to avoid consuming iron sources simultaneously with inhibitors like dairy products (milk, curd), tea, or coffee.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the negative framing of the question by spotting the keyword 'except'. This means you are looking for the option that does NOT fit the condition (increasing iron absorption).
Recall the key factors that influence dietary iron absorption. The most common enhancer is Vitamin C, and the most common inhibitors are calcium (from dairy), tannins (from tea/coffee), and phytates (from grains).
Evaluate each option based on this knowledge:
Orange: A known source of Vitamin C, an enhancer.
Citrus fruit: A category of fruits rich in Vitamin C, an enhancer.
Amla: An extremely rich source of Vitamin C, an enhancer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Factors affecting dietary iron absorption
Stem keywords: foods, increase, iron absorption
Lead-in keywords: except
Negative lead-in flag: The question asks to identify the exception among the given options.

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E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 2 — Subpart A (pp 1-232 of 464) p. 157-159

E6 Medicine Davidson Principles Practice 24e p. 737-739

Practise the full NORCET 2 -2021 (Shift-2)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.