Iron Absorption: Effects of Sugars and Reducing Agents

The effect of the iron-chelating sugars, fructose, glucose and galactose, on iron absorption in rats has been examined. Fructose has an effect in increasing iron absorption. Glucose and galactose have no effect on iron absorption. These findings suggest that the metabolism of fructose is responsible for changing iron absorption in the rat since it is metabolized during its absorption, while glucose and galactose are not.

Pyruvate and lactate, the final products of glycolysis, also increase iron absorption in the rat. The effects of lactate and hydroquinone on iron absorption are additive, suggesting independent actions. The effects of cysteine and hydroquinone on iron absorption are additive, suggesting independent actions of these two reducing agents in increasing iron absorption. Alternative hypotheses are offered in explanation of these observations.