Will the calcium in soymilk interferes with the absorption of iron in spinach if both are combined in a smoothie?
ADVERTISEMENT
It is perhaps the phytates in soy milk, rather than the calcium, that may have the most significant effect on limiting iron absorption of nonheme iron (found primarily in plant foods versus heme iron found in animal foods.)
So, yes, combining soymilk and spinach in a smoothie may somewhat reduce the absorption of the nonheme iron found in spinach. But it’s likely due to soy’s phytate content, rather than the calcium found in soymilk.
Take care.