Dietetic Technician Practice Test

Which nutrient is most associated with the prevention of anemia?

1. Iron

2. Calcium

3. Vitamin K

4. Vitamin C

The correct answer is: Iron

Iron is a crucial nutrient for the prevention of anemia, particularly iron-deficiency anemia, which is the most common type worldwide. Iron plays a key role in the formation of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body. When iron levels are inadequate, the body can't produce enough healthy red blood cells, leading to anemia and resulting symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and pale skin. While calcium, vitamin K, and vitamin C are all important for various bodily functions, they do not play a direct role in the prevention of anemia like iron does. Calcium is essential for bone health and other metabolic functions, vitamin K is involved in blood clotting, and vitamin C helps with the absorption of iron from plant-based sources and is vital for skin and immune health, but it does not prevent anemia on its own. Hence, iron is the nutrient most closely linked with the prevention of anemia.