What is the primary purpose of folic acid supplementation during pregnancy?

The primary purpose of folic acid supplementation during pregnancy is to prevent neural tube defects. Folic acid, a B-vitamin, plays a critical role in the growth and development of the neural tube, which eventually develops into the baby's brain and spinal cord. Adequate intake of folic acid before conception and during early pregnancy significantly reduces the risk of these defects, such as spina bifida and anencephaly.

Folic acid is particularly important in the first few weeks of pregnancy, often before many women even realize they are pregnant, which is why it is recommended that women who are trying to conceive or are in early pregnancy take a daily supplement. The other options, while they may have some relevance in pregnancy, do not encompass the primary function of folic acid. Improving maternal energy levels, decreasing morning sickness, and enhancing fetal growth are outcomes that can be influenced by a well-rounded diet and proper prenatal care, but they do not capture the essential role of folic acid in preventing specific birth defects.