A newborn infant is supplemented with vitamin B12.What is the most reasonable conclusion that can be made about the mother?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Vitamin B12 is only found naturally in animal products, so if the newborn is being supplemented with it, it is likely because the mother is not providing enough through her breastmilk. Option A can be ruled out because a vegetarian that consumes milk and eggs would still obtain enough B12 for themselves and their baby. Option B is unlikely because a high intake of folate would not necessarily impact B12 levels, and even if it did, it would not lead to a deficiency in the baby. Option C is possible but not the most likely scenario, as the question specifically states that the infant is being supplemented with B12, which implies a deficiency in the breastmilk. Option D is the most likely scenario, as vegans do not consume any animal products and are therefore at higher risk of B12 deficiency, and the fact that the mother is not providing enough B12 through her breastmilk is supported by the fact that the newborn is being supplemented with it.

A Newborn Infant Is Supplemented with Vitamin B12