Which vitamin can help in reducing the risk of neural tube defects in pregnancy?

Folate, also known as vitamin B9, plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of neural tube defects, which are serious birth defects that affect the spine and brain. Neural tube defects occur very early in pregnancy, often before a woman even knows she is pregnant. Folate is essential for DNA synthesis and cell growth, which is especially important during the rapid development of the fetus in the early stages.

Research has shown that adequate folate intake prior to conception and during the early stages of pregnancy significantly lowers the risk of these defects. This is why it is commonly recommended for women of childbearing age to consume foods rich in folate and, in many cases, to take folic acid supplements. Foods such as leafy greens, legumes, and fortified cereals are good sources of folate.

While other vitamins play important roles in maternal health, they do not have the same specific association with the prevention of neural tube defects as folate does.