Synergism of iron, vitamin C, and probiotic components in maintaining intestinal microflora and immunity

This review examines the relationship between iron, vitamin C, intestinal microflora, and the immune system, as well as the rationale for including iron and vitamin C in probiotic complexes. Iron is a key micronutrient involved in respiratory processes, hemoglobin and DNA synthesis, cell cycle regulation, and immune cell function. Iron deficiency is prevalent worldwide and can disrupt both systemic processes and intestinal microbial balance, reducing microbiota diversity and short-chain fatty acid production. Antibiotics used to treat infectious diseases further exacerbate dysbiotic changes by affecting intestinal barrier function and reducing the synthesis of metabolites important for immunity and micronutrient absorption.

Probiotic strains can improve non-heme iron absorption by lowering intestinal pH, stimulating prebiotic fermentation, and influencing the function of transport proteins. Prebiotics such as inulin and galactooligosaccharides also increase mineral bioavailability and support the growth of beneficial microflora. Vitamin C acts as a cofactor, enhancing iron absorption and providing antioxidant protection, while B vitamins influence metabolism and are essential for dysbiotic changes in the microbiota. The combination of iron, vitamin C, and B vitamins with pro- and prebiotic components is characterized by a synergistic effect: it improves the absorption of micronutrients, supports the restoration of microbiota, strengthens barrier mechanisms, and promotes increased immune reactivity. The summarized data emphasize the relevance and effectiveness of this approach for the prevention and correction of deficiency conditions and microbial imbalances.