What is the most effective method to reduce the risk of neural tube defects?

Folic acid supplementation before and during early pregnancy is widely recognized as the most effective method to reduce the risk of neural tube defects. Neural tube defects, such as spina bifida and anencephaly, occur when the neural tube does not close completely during embryonic development, which can lead to significant health complications for the infant.

Research has shown that adequate levels of folate, a type of B vitamin, are crucial in the early stages of fetal development, particularly in the first trimester when the neural tube is forming. Consuming the recommended dosage of folic acid—typically 400 micrograms daily—has been demonstrated to significantly lower the incidence of these defects. This is why healthcare providers often advise women of childbearing age to begin folic acid supplementation even before conception and to continue through the first trimester.

In contrast, while vitamin D is important for overall health and can impact other aspects of pregnancy, it does not have the same specific effect on neural tube defect prevention as folic acid does. Adequate hydration and regular exercise are essential for overall wellness and can contribute positively to a healthy pregnancy, but they do not directly influence the incidence of neural tube defects. Therefore, the evidence strongly supports folic acid supplementation as a targeted intervention to