Folic acid is critically important during pregnancy because it helps in the proper development of the baby's brain and spinal cord by supporting DNA replication and cell growth. Adequate folic acid intake before and during early pregnancy significantly reduces the risk of neural tube defects (NTDs) such as spina bifida and anencephaly, which are serious birth defects of the brain and spine. It also helps prevent other complications like cleft palate, premature birth, low birth weight, miscarriage, and poor growth in the womb. The neural tube develops very early in pregnancy, often before a woman knows she's pregnant, making it essential to have enough folic acid in the body beforehand. Women capable of becoming pregnant are recommended to take 400 micrograms of folic acid daily, starting at least one month before conception and continuing through the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. This supplementation can prevent 50-70% of neural tube defects. Besides pregnancy benefits, folic acid also supports the production of new cells, including red blood cells, and may reduce the risk of pregnancy complications like preeclampsia and other chronic diseases later in life. In summary, folic acid is vital for a healthy pregnancy mainly because it prevents major birth defects of the baby's brain and spine by ensuring proper neural tube development early on and supports overall fetal growth and maternal health.
