Final answer:
Iron is the mineral added to infant/baby foods to decrease the chance of deficiency. Folate is recommended for women who might become pregnant to prevent birth defects. A varied diet is essential for providing major minerals for overall health.
Step-by-step explanation:
The mineral that is commonly added to infant/baby foods to help decrease the chance of deficiency is iron. Iron is a crucial nutrient for growth and development, particularly for infants' developing brains and muscles. To ensure infants receive adequate amounts of iron, baby foods are often fortified with this mineral. This practice helps prevent iron deficiency, which can lead to anemia and other developmental issues. While the question hints at magnesium, it's iron that is typically added to baby foods to address common deficiencies.
Additionally, folate is recommended for women who may become pregnant to prevent birth defects, and infant formulas often contain nutritional enrichment ingredients such as DHA and ARA, derived from algae, thanks to NASA-sponsored research.
To maintain good health, it's essential to consume a varied diet that includes major minerals like sodium, potassium, and calcium. These are found in foods like leafy green vegetables, whole grains, and milk, which provide the necessary nutrients for bodily functions and development.