Final answer:
Folate, or folic acid, is important for the healthy development of the neural tube. Deficiency during early pregnancy can result in neural tube defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly.
Step-by-step explanation:
Folate, also known as folic acid, is a B vitamin that plays a crucial role in the healthy development of the neural tube. A deficiency of folate during the early stages of pregnancy can lead to neural tube defects, such as spina bifida and anencephaly. Spina bifida is a birth defect where spinal tissue protrudes through the newborn's vertebral column, while anencephaly is a partial or complete absence of brain tissue.