Which type of anemia can be caused by insufficient dietary intake of a specific vitamin during pregnancy?

Folic acid deficiency anemia is specifically linked to insufficient dietary intake of folate, which is crucial during pregnancy. Adequate folic acid is vital for the production of red blood cells and the formation of DNA. During pregnancy, the demand for folate increases significantly to support the developing fetus and prevent neural tube defects. A lack of folate during this period can lead to megaloblastic anemia, characterized by the production of abnormally large red blood cells that are ineffective in carrying oxygen.

In contrast, while iron deficiency anemia and vitamin B12 deficiency anemia are also forms of anemia that may affect pregnant individuals, they are caused by deficiencies in iron and vitamin B12, respectively. Hemolytic anemia, on the other hand, is a different mechanism of anemia where the destruction of red blood cells outweighs their production and is not directly related to dietary intake during pregnancy. Therefore, folic acid deficiency anemia directly correlates with insufficient dietary intake of this specific vitamin during pregnancy, making it the correct choice in this context.