[Effect of alcohol on iron absorption].

The authors have investigated the assumption that alcohol increases iron absorption. Using the whole body counter technique, they show that iron absorption is lowered significantly by addition to the test dose of either normal or dealcoholized whisky, but that there is no difference between these two latter groups. Wine has a similar effect. The use of ethanol added to a test meal demonstrates that it is organic iron, and not the inorganic form, whose absorption is diminished by alcohol.