During pregnancy, which nutrient should be avoided in excessive amounts?

• A. Vitamin B-6
• B. Folic acid
• C. Vitamin A
• D. Iron

Answer: (C)

Excess vitamin A during pregnancy poses a real risk to fetal development. While vitamin A is essential for growth and development, too much—especially preformed vitamin A found in supplements and animal liver—can act as a teratogen, leading to birth defects and other fetal harm. The danger is greatest in the first trimester when organs are forming. Plant-based sources of vitamin A (beta-carotene) are much safer because the body only converts what it needs and does not accumulate to toxic levels. So, avoiding high-dose vitamin A supplements and liver-rich foods helps minimize this risk. Other nutrients mentioned are important at appropriate levels (folic acid, iron, and B vitamins), but they don’t carry the same teratogenic risk when consumed as recommended.