Which nutrient helps prevent maternal anemia and supports fetal development during pregnancy?

• A. Vitamin D
• B. Folate
• C. Iron
• D. Calcium

Answer: (C)

Iron is essential for making hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. During pregnancy, blood volume increases and the fetus and placenta need iron, so the body's iron requirements rise. Adequate iron helps prevent maternal iron-deficiency anemia, which can cause fatigue and complications, and it provides the iron stores the fetus needs for growth and development. Other nutrients like folate, calcium, and vitamin D are also important in pregnancy, but iron most directly prevents anemia and supports fetal oxygen delivery and growth.