Which nutritional supplement is commonly recommended during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects?

Folic acid is a crucial nutritional supplement recommended during pregnancy primarily to prevent neural tube defects, which are serious congenital anomalies affecting the brain and spinal cord. Neural tube defects occur in the early stages of fetal development, often before a woman even realizes she is pregnant, making it important for women to have adequate folic acid levels before conception and during early pregnancy.

Research has shown that adequate intake of folic acid can significantly reduce the risk of these defects if taken prior to conception and in the first trimester. The recommended daily intake of folic acid for pregnant women is 600 micrograms, which can be obtained from fortified foods, dietary supplements, and natural food sources such as leafy greens, nuts, and beans.

While iodine, calcium, and vitamin D are also important for pregnancy health—supporting thyroid function, bone health, and overall maternal and fetal well-being—none have the same specific and direct role in preventing neural tube defects as folic acid does. Hence, the emphasis on folic acid in prenatal nutrition guidelines is grounded in substantial evidence of its effectiveness in preventing these specific birth defects.