NANP Board Practice Exam 2025 - Free NANP Board Practice Questions and Study Guide

Question: 1 / 400

Which type of iron is more easily absorbed by the human body?

Ferrous Iron

Ferric Iron

Heme Iron

The body more easily absorbs heme iron, which is found in animal products such as meat, poultry, and fish. This type of iron is integral to hemoglobin and myoglobin, making it more bioavailable to humans. Heme iron is absorbed through a different mechanism than non-heme iron, leading to a higher absorption rate, typically ranging from 15% to 35% compared to non-heme iron which has a lower absorption rate of around 2% to 20%.

While ferrous iron (the reduced form of iron) is more soluble and can be better absorbed than ferric iron (the oxidized form), heme iron stands out because of its origin and absorption efficiency in the human digestive system. Non-heme iron, found primarily in plant sources, is less efficiently absorbed due to various dietary factors that can inhibit its uptake.

Get further explanation with Examzify DeepDiveBeta

Non-heme Iron

Next Question

Report this question

Download NANP Board Practice Exam PDF Study Guide
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy