The bioavailability of minerals is influenced by many factors. List the ways mineral absorption is enhanced and reduced

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

There are a number of factors that will affect how much of a mineral is absorbed. Body requirements at a particular time can result in increased or decreased absorption. For example, pregnant women require more of certain minerals than non-pregnant women. Chemical form can also affect bioavailability. For example, heme iron found in animal foods is more bioavailable than non-heme iron, the form found in plant foods. The condition of the GI tract can also affect absorption. For example, the pH of the stomach and small intestine can affect bioavailability. Certain minerals, like calcium and iron are better absorbed in a more acidic environment. How quickly the mineral moves through the GI tract will also affect absorption. Fiber, mineral oil, and laxative use speeds up the passage of the food through the intestine reducing the amount of time the mineral is available to be absorbed. Damage to the GI tract such as celiac disease and cystic fibrosis can result in mineral malabsorption. The presence of other minerals and substances may also affect absorption. For example, vitamin C enhances the absorption of iron and high intakes of zinc reduce the absorption of copper. The presence of chelating agents, such as oxalic and phytic acid may bind to minerals thus reducing absorption. Similarly, certain medications may bind with minerals reducing absorption.