Question

Inadequate availability of which nutrient during the first 21 to 27 days after conception is a known cause of neural tube defects (NTDs)?

Answer 1

Adequate levels of folate, a B vitamin, are critically important during the first few weeks after conception to prevent neural tube defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nutrient that is known to be essential during the first 21 to 27 days after conception for preventing neural tube defects (NTDs) is folate. Folate, a B vitamin, is crucial for proper neural tube development. An inadequate supply of folate can lead to neural tube defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly. Spina bifida is a condition where spinal tissue protrudes through an incomplete vertebral column, and anencephaly is characterized by a partial or complete absence of brain tissue.

Sources of folate include leafy green vegetables, whole wheat, fruits, nuts, and legumes. Ensuring sufficient folate intake is particularly important during early pregnancy to reduce the risk of such birth defects.