Question

Which reason explains why adequate amounts of folic acid are needed during pregnancy?

Options:
a) Prevents gestational diabetes
b) Promotes fetal lung development
c) Reduces the risk of neural tube defects
d) Enhances maternal immune function
e) All of the above

Answer 1

Adequate folic acid is necessary during pregnancy primarily to reduce the risk of neural tube defects, like spina bifida and anencephaly, by ensuring proper closure of the neural tube.

Step-by-step explanation:

The reason adequate amounts of folic acid are needed during pregnancy is to reduce the risk of neural tube defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly. These defects occur when the neural tube does not close completely, leading to severe disabilities or even fetal death. The Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine recommends that all women who might become pregnant consume at least 400 µg/day of folate from supplements or fortified foods to ensure proper neural tube development.