A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who has anemia and has a prescription for ferrous sulfate. Which of the following foods should the nurse recommend that the client consume to increase the absorption of this medication?

A. Cheese: Dairy products contain calcium, which can inhibit the absorption of iron by competing at the intestinal absorption sites. Consuming cheese with ferrous sulfate may reduce its effectiveness in treating anemia. It is generally recommended to separate iron supplements from high-calcium foods. B. Raw oranges: Citrus fruits are high in vitamin C, which enhances the absorption of non-heme iron like ferrous sulfate. Vitamin C reduces ferric iron to the more easily absorbed ferrous form, improving the supplement’s effectiveness. Including oranges or other vitamin C–rich foods supports optimal treatment outcomes. C. Oatmeal: Oats contain phytic acid, which can bind to iron and reduce its absorption. While oatmeal is nutritious, consuming it concurrently with ferrous sulfate may decrease the supplement’s bioavailability. Advising the client to take iron separately from high-phytate foods maximizes absorption. D. Baked potatoes: Although potatoes contain some vitamin C, the amount is lower compared with citrus fruits, so they have a less significant effect on enhancing iron absorption. They can be included in the diet but are not the most effective option for increasing ferrous sulfate uptake.