Inadequate intake by the pregnant woman of which vitamin may cause neural tube defects?

Correct option is C

Ans. (c) Folic Acid
Sol. Folic Acid (Vitamin B9) is essential for DNA synthesis and cell division, particularly during fetal development. Deficiency during early pregnancy increases the risk of neural tube defects (NTDs), such as spina bifida and anencephaly, which affect the development of the brain and spinal cord. Pregnant women are advised to take 400-600 mcg of folic acid daily before and during early pregnancy to prevent these birth defects.
Explanation of each option:
· (a) Niacin (Vitamin B3) – Important for metabolism and skin health but not linked to neural tube defects.
· (b) Vitamin D – Essential for bone development, but not directly related to NTDs.
· (c) Folic Acid – Correct answer. Deficiency leads to neural tube defects in the fetus.
· (d) Thiamine (Vitamin B1) – Important for nerve function, but not related to fetal neural tube development.