What essential nutrient should all pregnant women consider supplementing with to prevent neural tube defects?

Folic acid is the essential nutrient that all pregnant women should consider supplementing with to prevent neural tube defects. Neural tube defects, such as spina bifida and anencephaly, occur when the neural tube, which develops into the brain and spinal cord, does not close completely during the early weeks of pregnancy. Adequate intake of folic acid before conception and during early pregnancy has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of these defects.

Folic acid is a B-vitamin that is crucial for DNA synthesis and cell division, which are vital processes during the rapid growth and development of a fetus. The recommended amount is at least 400 micrograms daily for women of childbearing age, and this amount typically increases during pregnancy.

While iron, vitamin B12, and calcium are important nutrients for pregnant women for various reasons—such as supporting the development of the baby's blood and bones—none of these nutrients specifically target the prevention of neural tube defects in the same manner as folic acid. Therefore, focusing on folic acid supplementation is essential for women who are planning to become pregnant or are in the early stages of pregnancy to help ensure a healthy neural development in their infants.