Which vitamin can help improve absorption of dietary iron?

Vitamin C is known to enhance the absorption of dietary iron, especially non-heme iron found in plant-based foods. This is accomplished through a few mechanisms. First, vitamin C can convert ferric iron (Fe3+) into ferrous iron (Fe2+), which is more soluble and easier for the body to absorb in the intestines. Additionally, vitamin C can form complexes with iron in the gastrointestinal tract, which further improves its solubility and bioavailability.

The other vitamins listed do not have a similar effect on iron absorption. For instance, vitamin B12 is crucial for red blood cell formation and neurological function, but it does not play a role in increasing iron absorption. Vitamin E acts primarily as an antioxidant and does not influence iron absorption directly. Vitamin D is essential for calcium metabolism and bone health but similarly does not have a direct impact on iron absorption. Hence, vitamin C's unique ability to assist in iron absorption distinguishes it as the correct answer.