Which nutrient taken in excessive amounts has been associated with teratogenic effects on the newborn?

Which nutrient taken in excessive amounts has been associated with teratogenic effects on the newborn?

• A. Calcium
• B. Folic acid
• C. Iron
• D. Vitamin A

Answer: (D)

Excess vitamin A during early pregnancy can disrupt how a fetus develops because retinoids regulate gene expression that guides organ formation. When a pregnant person takes too much preformed vitamin A (retinol or retinoic acid), it can cause birth defects such as craniofacial abnormalities, heart and CNS problems, and other congenital anomalies. This risk is especially tied to the first trimester when organs are forming. In contrast, calcium, iron, and folic acid are nutrients that support development; folic acid helps prevent neural tube defects, iron prevents maternal anemia, and calcium supports bone development. Therefore, vitamin A is the nutrient most commonly linked to teratogenic effects when consumed in excess.

Excess vitamin A during early pregnancy can disrupt how a fetus develops because retinoids regulate gene expression that guides organ formation. When a pregnant person takes too much preformed vitamin A (retinol or retinoic acid), it can cause birth defects such as craniofacial abnormalities, heart and CNS problems, and other congenital anomalies. This risk is especially tied to the first trimester when organs are forming. In contrast, calcium, iron, and folic acid are nutrients that support development; folic acid helps prevent neural tube defects, iron prevents maternal anemia, and calcium supports bone development. Therefore, vitamin A is the nutrient most commonly linked to teratogenic effects when consumed in excess.