NANP Board Practice Exam

Heme iron is found in ________ and is absorbed better than other iron forms.

1. Animal tissues

2. Fruits and vegetables

3. Legumes

4. Nuts and seeds

The correct answer is: Animal tissues

Heme iron is primarily found in animal tissues, particularly in red meats, fish, and poultry. This type of iron is bound to hemoglobin and myoglobin, making it more bioavailable for absorption in the human body compared to non-heme iron, which is found in plant-based sources like fruits, vegetables, legumes, and nuts. The body efficiently absorbs heme iron through the intestinal walls, which is why it is considered to have a higher absorption rate than other iron forms. This characteristic makes animal tissues an important dietary source of iron, especially for individuals needing to increase their iron intake.