Final answer:
To reduce the risk of neural tube defects, women should start taking folate supplements 3 months before pregnancy and ensure a daily intake of at least 400 µg/day. Concurrently, women should avoid exposure to toxins to protect the developing fetus.
Step-by-step explanation:
To decrease the incidence of neural tube defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly, it is recommended to start taking folate supplements 3 months before becoming pregnant. Folate, a B vitamin, is critical for the healthy development of the neural tube, and a deficiency in maternal folate can lead to these severe birth defects. 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. This preventive measure should be combined with avoiding toxins such as alcohol, illegal drugs, and certain medications, particularly during the early stages of pregnancy when major organ development occurs.