Pregnancy is one of the more important periods in life when increased
micronutrients, and macronutrients are most needed by the body; both for the health and
well-being of the mother and for the growing foetus and newborn child. This brief review
aims to identify the micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) likely to be deficient in women
of reproductive age in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMIC), especially during
pregnancy, and the impact of such deficiencies. A global prevalence of some two billion
people at risk of micronutrient deficiencies, and multiple micronutrient deficiencies of many
pregnant women in LMIC underline the urgency to establishing the optimal
recommendations, including for delivery. It has long been recognized that adequate iron is
important for best reproductive outcomes, including gestational cognitive development.
Similarly, iodine and calcium have been recognized for their roles in development of the
foetus/neonate. Less clear effects of deficiencies of zinc, copper, magnesium and selenium
have been reported. Folate sufficiency periconceptionally is recognized both by the practice of
providing folic acid in antenatal iron/folic acid supplementation and by increasing numbers
of countries fortifying flours with folic acid. Other vitamins likely to be important include
vitamins B12, D and A with the water-soluble vitamins generally less likely to be a problem.
Epigenetic influences and the likely influence of micronutrient deficiencies on foetal origins
of adult chronic diseases are currently being clarified. Micronutrients may have other more
subtle, unrecognized effects. The necessity for improved diets and health and sanitation are