Discuss the difference between heme and non-heme iron. Include examples of food sources for each type of iron and explain why one type is absorbed better than another

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

ANS: Heme iron is part of the protein hemoglobin (in your red blood cells. and myoglobin in your muscles. Heme iron comes from animal sources, such as meat, poultry, and fish. Non-heme iron, on the other hand, comes from plant foods, such as grains and vegetables. Non-heme iron is less easily absorbed than heme iron because the substances in plant foods known as phytates inhibit absorption. Compounds in tea and coffee, called polyphenols, can also inhibit absorption. One can enhance non-heme iron absorption by eating foods high in vitamin C along with iron-rich foods.