
Everything you need to know about mineral absorption
From Nutrition Diva by QuickAndDirtyTips.com, Monica Reinagel
May 20, 2026 · 10 min · Episode 864
About this episode
Monica explores the science of mineral absorption and the impact of anti-nutrients on nutrient availability.
864.Does putting spinach in your smoothie cancel out the calcium? Will your morning cup of tea prevent you from absorbing iron? In this episode, Monica looks into the science of mineral absorption and explores the truth behind "anti-nutrients" like oxalates, tannins, and fiber. While certain compounds in food can bind to minerals—like the oxalates in spinach or tannins in tea—the body has built-in buffers to keep you healthy. In this episode, we discuss: The Spinach paradox: Why the calcium in greens isn't always bioavailable. Iron inhibitors: How coffee and tea affect iron levels (and how Vitamin C can help). The fiber myth: Why a high-fiber diet won't lead to mineral deficiencies. Fortified foods vs. supplements: Is calcium-fortified orange juice or soymilk better than a pill? The good news is the RDA (Recommended Dietary Allowance) already accounts for these interactions. Tune in to learn why a varied diet is your best defense and why you probably don't need to micromanage your meals to get the minerals you need. Nutrition Diva is a Quick and Dirty Tips podcast, hosted by Monica Reinegal. New to Nutrition Diva? Check out our special Spotify playlist for a collection of the…
People in this episode
Host: Monica Reinagel
Topics covered
- mineral absorption
- anti-nutrients
- bioavailability
- dietary recommendations
- nutrition science
- health tips
Keywords
- mineral absorption
- calcium
- iron
- anti-nutrients
- diet
- nutrition
- bioavailability
- fiber
- vitamins
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: QuickAndDirtyTips.com
Products: calcium-fortified orange juice, soymilk, Vitamin C, coffee, tea
Books & works: Nutrition Diva, Stronger Bones at Every Age, Staying Strong as We Age, Diabetes, Weight Loss That Lasts, Gut Health
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