In the first trimester, what does folic acid supplementation help reduce the risk of?

Folic acid supplementation during the first trimester is crucial for reducing the risk of neural tube defects (NTDs) in developing fetuses. Neural tube defects are serious birth defects that affect the brain, spine, or spinal cord and occur when the neural tube does not close completely during early fetal development, typically within the first four weeks of conception.

Adequate folic acid intake is essential for DNA synthesis and cell division, processes that are particularly important during the rapid growth and development of the neural tube. Studies have consistently shown that women who take folic acid before conception and during the early stages of pregnancy significantly lower their risk of having a baby with a neural tube defect, including conditions such as spina bifida and anencephaly.

While folic acid plays a role in various aspects of health and development, the strongest evidence supporting its impact specifically addresses the prevention of neural tube defects. The other options listed do not have a direct correlation with folic acid supplementation during the critical period of the first trimester.