Which vitamin supplementation is recommended during early pregnancy?

• A. Vitamin C
• B. Vitamin D
• C. Folic acid
• D. Calcium

Answer: (C)

Folic acid is the nutrient linked to preventing neural tube defects, which is why it’s the supplement typically recommended in early pregnancy. It supports DNA synthesis and rapid cell growth in the developing embryo, and the neural tube—which becomes the brain and spinal cord—closes very early, usually within the first month after conception. Because this process happens so early, taking folic acid before conception and during the first trimester reduces the risk of neural tube defects. The usual guideline is about 400 micrograms daily for most people planning pregnancy, with higher doses if there are specific risk factors. Other vitamins like vitamin C, vitamin D, and calcium are important for overall health, but they don’t have the same targeted preventive effect on neural tube defects, so they are not emphasized as the universal early-pregnancy supplement.