Which nutrient is essential to prevent neural tube defects during pregnancy?

Folic acid is essential for preventing neural tube defects during pregnancy because it plays a critical role in the proper development of the neural tube, which eventually forms the baby's brain and spinal cord. Adequate folic acid intake before conception and during early pregnancy significantly reduces the risk of defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly. This is why healthcare providers often recommend that women of childbearing age take a daily folic acid supplement, in addition to consuming folate-rich foods, to ensure they have sufficient levels to support fetal development.

While other nutrients, such as iron, calcium, and vitamin D, are important for a healthy pregnancy, they do not specifically target the prevention of neural tube defects in the same way that folic acid does.