The Claim

The use of multiple micronutrient supplements compared to iron-folic acid supplements during pregnancy is not associated with a statistically significant difference in neonatal mortality risk.

Source: Effect of multiple micronutrient supplements v. iron and folic acid supplements on neonatal mortality: a reanalysis by iron dose

What the research says

Supports is higher

Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.

Supports
56score
Challenges
0score

These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.

Correlation
1 study reviewed
In plain English

Pregnant women who take multiple micronutrient supplements instead of iron-folic acid supplements have the same rate of newborn deaths.

See the scientific wording

The overall neonatal mortality risk ratio of 0.99 (95% CI 0.89–1.09) across 112,953 pregnant women in prior meta-analyses of multiple micronutrient versus iron-folic acid supplements is consistent with the findings of this reanalysis, indicating no meaningful difference in newborn survival between the two supplement types.

Why this might work

Both supplement types provide enough iron and other nutrients to maintain normal oxygen and nutrient flow to the baby, so the baby's chances of surviving the first month stay the same regardless of which supplement the mother takes.

Supported mechanismbased on 1 study

What the research says

1 study
  1. Study: Effect of multiple micronutrient supplements v. iron and folic acid supplements on neonatal mortality: a reanalysis by iron dose

    This study looked at whether giving pregnant women a mix of vitamins and minerals (instead of just iron and folic acid) affects whether babies survive the first month after birth. It found no difference — both types of supplements led to about the same number of baby deaths.

Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies

Fit Body Science verdict — we translate health claims into clear verdicts backed by peer-reviewed research.

Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.