Final answer:
During pregnancy, enhanced red blood cell formation and cell division increase the requirement for Iron, Vitamin B12, and Zinc, thus the correct answer is d) All of these. Each plays a critical role in the healthy development of the fetus and maintaining the mother's health.
Step-by-step explanation:
During pregnancy, there is an increased demand for many micrountrients due to enhanced red blood cell formation and cell division. The correct answer to this question is d) All of these, which includes:
- Iron: This is needed for the synthesis of hemoglobin, aiding in the proper transportation of oxygen to the mother's and the developing fetus's tissues.
- Vitamin B12: Vitamin B12 functions as a co-enzyme that facilitates DNA synthesis, which is crucial for cell division and the formation of new cells, including red blood cells or erythrocytes.
- Zinc: Zinc acts as a co-enzyme in the synthesis of the heme portion of hemoglobin and is important in the growth and development of body tissues.
Furthermore, deficiencies in these nutrients during pregnancy can lead to complications such as anemia and birth defects, emphasizing their importance for both the mother's and the fetus's health.