GLOSSARY

Nutrient Interaction occurs when the presence or amount of one nutrient influences another's absorption, transport, metabolism or effects. The interaction may be supportive or inhibitory, and its importance depends on dose, chemical form and the dietary setting.

Interactions can occur during intestinal absorption, transport, storage, or metabolism and depend on dose and form. Findings from high-dose supplements should not automatically be applied to ordinary food amounts. Practical relevance requires attention to outcomes beyond an isolated laboratory change.

The amount consumed is not necessarily the amount absorbed or used by the body. Chemical form, meal composition, food structure, and gastrointestinal condition influence bioavailability. Presence in a composition table therefore does not guarantee an identical biological response.

Vitamin C can enhance absorption of non-haem iron from plant foods. Pairing lentils with peppers or another vitamin C source is a practical food example. This effect does not automatically treat anaemia or imply that everyone needs an iron supplement.