A nurse is providing prenatal teaching about iron to a client who follows a vegetarian diet. The nurse should recommend that the client consume which of the following foods to enhance the absorption of nonheme iron?

Rationale: A. Boiled eggs: While eggs contain some iron, they are not known to enhance the absorption of nonheme iron. In fact, certain components in eggs may inhibit iron absorption from plant-based sources. B. Orange slices: Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) found in citrus fruits like oranges significantly enhances the absorption of nonheme iron by reducing it to a more absorbable form. This makes orange slices an ideal complement to iron-rich plant foods. C. Cheddar cheese: Dairy products like cheese are low in iron and contain calcium, which can actually compete with iron for absorption in the intestines, reducing its bioavailability rather than enhancing it. D. Mixed nuts: Although nuts contain some iron, they are also high in phytates, which can inhibit iron absorption. They do not actively enhance nonheme iron uptake and are not the best dietary pairing for this purpose.