Final answer:
The recommended daily intake of folate for women of childbearing age is 400 micrograms (mcg). Folate is essential for healthy development during pregnancy and helps prevent neural tube defects.
Step-by-step explanation:
The recommended daily intake of folate for women of childbearing age is 400 micrograms (mcg).
Folate, also known as folic acid, is a B-vitamin that is essential for healthy development during pregnancy. It plays a crucial role in the formation of the neural tube, which develops into the baby's brain and spinal cord.
A deficiency of folate during pregnancy can lead to neural tube defects, such as spina bifida. To prevent these defects, it is recommended that women of childbearing age consume at least 400 micrograms of folate daily from supplements or fortified foods.