Question: does peanut butter inhibit iron absorption?
Answer: Phytate, or phytic acid, is found in foods like whole grains, cereals, soy, nuts and legumes ( 3 ). Even a small amount of phytate can significantly decrease iron absorption ( 1 , 3 ). In one study, as little as 2 mg of phytate in foods inhibited iron absorption by 18% when added to wheat rolls.