Final answer:
Pregnant or breastfeeding women, premenopausal women, and older adults should consider taking multivitamin and mineral supplements to cover nutritional needs. Folate is especially important to prevent birth defects and anemia. Adequate nutrient intake is crucial for fetal growth and the mother's health.
Step-by-step explanation:
During pregnancy, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should take multivitamin and mineral supplements. This is particularly important for premenopausal women who may require extra calcium and iron, and for older adults. The Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine recommends a daily intake of at least 400 µg/day of folate from supplements or fortified foods for all women who might become pregnant, to prevent certain birth defects, such as neural tube defects, and to reduce the risk of anemia. The mother's role is critical in the development of the embryo and fetus, and it is essential that she provides all the nutrients needed for normal growth and development. Important nutrients during pregnancy include folic acid (vitamin B9), calcium, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Due to factors such as poor diets, some health officials suggest that a daily multivitamin might be beneficial. The US Preventive Task Force also backs this recommendation, especially for folate intake, which can more easily be met with a supplement. Pregnancies, certain medications, excessive alcohol consumption, and diseases such as celiac disease can lead to vitamin deficiencies, thus augmenting the importance of proper supplementation during pregnancy.