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What Is the Function of MFP Factor?

MFP factor is a nutritional element found in certain foods, and aids in the absorption of iron. MFP factor plays a crucial role in the uptake of iron from "nonheme sources," a type of iron that's particularly difficult to absorb. MFP is one of numerous nutritional compounds whose precise mechanism of action and chemical structure has not been fully identified. In other words, we know that MFP works but aren't quite sure yet how it works.

  1. Heme Vs. Nonheme Iron

    • The iron found in food can be grouped into two distinct categories: heme and nonheme iron. Heme iron is bound to the hemoglobin in meat, poultry and fish, and is relatively easy to absorb. Authors Ellie Whitney and Frances Sienkiewicz Sizer, in their book, "Nutrition: Concepts and Controversies," note that about 23 percent of heme iron is absorbed in the digestive system.

      Nonheme iron, on the other hand, is found in plant foods and is much harder to absorb. This is where MFP factor comes in. MFP factor is found in meat, fish and poultry and enhances the absorption of nonheme iron considerably (up to four times).

    Mixing it Up

    • Due to the positive effects of MFP factor on iron absorption, mixed meals, consisting of animal and plant foods, considerably improve iron levels in the blood. The MFP factor in animal foods helps the iron in plant foods enter the bloodstream, while the iron in the animal foods is also absorbed. As a result, according to Whitney and Sizer, 18 percent of the iron in a mixed meal can be absorbed.

    Iron Deficiency

    • According to the World Health Organization, WHO Global Database on Anemia, an estimated 2 billion people worldwide suffer from iron deficiency, making this the most common nutritional deficiency on Earth. The WHO goes on to estimate that eradicating iron deficiency could enhance national productivity by as much as 20 percent. Heavy exercise, menstrual bleeding and poor nutritional habits are to blame for iron deficiency. Even wealthy populations can suffer from this malady.

    Vitamin C

    • In addition to the MFP factor, vitamin C also enhances iron absorption (up to threefold), giving us another reason to eat mixed meals, consisting of plant as well as animal foods. A slice of tomato in a chicken sandwich, for example, contains vitamin C and improves iron absorption from the bread as well as the lettuce. The MFP factor found in chicken serves the same purpose and maximizes the amount of iron we can utilize from the sandwich.

    Still a Mystery

    • Even though we understand where it's found and what it does, how the MFP factor provides these wonderful benefits is largely a mystery. As scientists better understand this substance, it's hoped that better treatments for anemia and iron deficiency will be developed and many lives saved throughout the world.

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