Which nutrient is particularly important during pregnancy for fetal development?

Folic acid is a crucial nutrient during pregnancy, primarily because it plays a significant role in the development of the fetal neural tube, which eventually forms the brain and spinal cord. Adequate intake of folic acid before and during the early stages of pregnancy has been shown to reduce the risk of neural tube defects, such as spina bifida and anencephaly. The body's demand for folic acid increases significantly during pregnancy, making it essential for expectant mothers to meet the recommended dietary allowance to support the healthy formation of the fetus.

While iron, calcium, and vitamin C are also important for overall maternal health and fetal development, folic acid stands out due to its critical function in preventing specific developmental issues related to the central nervous system. Iron is vital for preventing anemia and supporting increased blood volume, calcium is essential for building the baby's bones and teeth, and vitamin C plays a role in tissue repair and immune function, but none of these nutrients have the same direct impact on preventing neural tube defects as folic acid does.