Question

At what point during pregnancy is adequate folate the MOST important?

a. During the first four weeks
b. During the second trimester
c. During the third trimester
d. In the weeks immediately prior to delivery

Answer 1

Folate is most important during the first four weeks of pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects. Women are advised to consume at least 400 µg/day of folate to support healthy embryonic development.

Step-by-step explanation:

Adequate folate is most important during the first four weeks of pregnancy. This is because folate is vital for the healthy development of the neural tube, which will form the future brain and spinal cord of the embryo. A deficiency in maternal folate can lead to neural tube defects, such as spina bifida and anencephaly. To support the healthy development of the tube and prevent these defects, the Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine recommends that all women of childbearing age consume at least 400 µg/day of folate from supplements or fortified foods. During the first trimester, the developing embryo is particularly susceptible to environmental factors and maternal nutrition. Hence, taking care of maternal health and ensuring adequate folate consumption is crucial for preventing major birth defects that occur during early development.