Physiology Ascorbic acid is a potent enhancer of iron absorption because it: A Enhances the absorption of heme iron B Enhances the activity of heme oxygenase C Is a reducing agent, thereby helping to keep iron in the ferrous state D Decreases the production of ferritin by enterocytes 💡 Explanation Ascorbic acid is a potent enhancer of iron absorption because it: ✓ Correct Answer: C. Is a reducing agent, thereby helping to keep iron in the ferrous state