What substance should pregnant women supplement to lower the risk of neural tube defects?

Folic acid plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of neural tube defects during pregnancy. Neural tube defects are serious birth defects of the brain and spinal cord, and research has shown that adequate folic acid supplementation before conception and during early pregnancy can significantly decrease the occurrence of these defects. Folic acid is a B-vitamin that is vital for DNA synthesis and cell division, making it particularly important during the rapid growth and development that occurs in early pregnancy.

The recommendation for women of childbearing age and pregnant women is to consume sufficient folic acid to support fetal development and prevent complications. This is why health professionals often advise women to start taking folic acid supplements prior to conception and continue through the first trimester of pregnancy.