Final answer:
Women of child-bearing age are recommended to consume at least 400 µg of folate daily to prevent neural tube defects like spina bifida in their offspring.
Step-by-step explanation:
Women of child-bearing age should regularly consume at least 400 micrograms (µg) of folate per day. The Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine recommends this amount from supplements or fortified foods to reduce the risk of neural tube defects. Folate is crucial for the healthy development of the neural tube in the fetus, and a deficiency during the early stages of pregnancy can result in serious conditions such as spina bifida or anencephaly, where there can be partial or complete absence of brain tissue. The body's ability to store folic acid and the contribution of the intestinal flora still necessitate a daily intake to maintain adequate levels for women who might become pregnant.