Interrelationships

Question 1

Assists in absorption of calcium

Answer 1

Vitamin D: Controls absorption of calcium
Phosphorus: Combines to make calcium phosphate which strengthens bones and teeth
Lactose: Increases calcium absorption during digestion
Protein: Amino acids combine with calcium to make soluble salts which are easily absorbed

Question 2

Hinders absorption of calcium

Answer 2

Phytic acid: Combines with calcium in a form which prevents absorption of calcium
Fibre: Not being absorbable, it combines with calcium to make it unavailable to the body
Fat: Saturated fat forms insoluble soaps with calcium which prevent absorption
Oxalic acid: Interferes with calcium absorption

Question 3

Assists absorption of iron

Answer 3

Vitamin C: Changes ferric to ferrous, making it absorbable by the body
Folic acid: Increases production of red blood cells if iron is lacking in the body

Question 4

Hinders absorption of iron

Answer 4

Fibre: Combines with iron and prevents absorption into the bloodstream
Phytic acid: Forms insoluble complexes with iron in small intestine which prevents iron absorption