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The most effective vitamins for enhancing iron absorption are Vitamin C and, to a lesser extent, certain B vitamins, particularly folate (Vitamin B9) and Vitamin B12, which are essential in optimizing the body’s ability to utilize iron. Vitamin C plays a crucial role by converting iron into a more absorbable form and also by preventing it from oxidizing. This enables the body to utilize the iron more efficiently, especially non-heme iron, which is found in plant sources.

While certain B vitamins, such as B12, are vital for the overall health and utilization of iron in the body, they do not directly enhance iron absorption in the same way that Vitamin C does. This makes the association with iron absorption more indirect.

The other options listed do not have a significant role in promoting iron absorption. Vitamins A and D, for instance, are more closely related to other functions in the body, such as vision and calcium metabolism, respectively. Likewise, Vitamin K and calcium do not significantly influence iron absorption; in fact, calcium can inhibit it.

In summary, the benefits of Vitamin C in iron absorption are well established, making it a crucial nutrient to enhance the bioavailability of iron from dietary sources.