Which micronutrient is particularly important for pregnant women to supplement?

Folic acid is especially crucial for pregnant women because it plays a vital role in fetal development, particularly in the formation of the neural tube, which eventually develops into the baby's brain and spinal cord. Adequate folate intake during the early stages of pregnancy is essential for reducing the risk of neural tube defects, which are serious birth defects that can occur in the first trimester when the neural tube is forming. As the body needs increased amounts of folic acid to support the developing fetus, supplementation is often recommended prior to conception and during pregnancy to ensure sufficient levels are maintained.

While the other micronutrients mentioned are also important—such as Vitamin B12 for red blood cell formation and nervous system health, Vitamin D for calcium absorption and bone health, and iron for preventing anemia during pregnancy—folic acid is particularly highlighted in guidelines and recommendations for prenatal health due to its specific role in preventing developmental defects.