Which vitamin is crucial for fetal neural tube development?

Folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, is essential for fetal neural tube development. It plays a critical role in DNA synthesis and cell division, which are vital processes during the rapidly proliferating stages of embryonic development. Sufficient intake of folic acid before conception and during early pregnancy significantly reduces the risk of neural tube defects (NTDs) such as spina bifida and anencephaly. These defects occur when the neural tube, which forms the baby’s brain and spine, does not close completely during the first few weeks of pregnancy.

Health guidelines recommend that women of childbearing age take a daily supplement of folic acid to ensure they have adequate levels, as NTDs develop very early in pregnancy, often before a woman even knows she is pregnant. Regular consumption of folate-rich foods, such as leafy greens and fortified grains, is also encouraged to support overall maternal and fetal health. Given these facts, folic acid is recognized as crucial for preventing neural tube defects and supporting healthy fetal development.