How much folic acid is recommended daily during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects?

During pregnancy, it is recommended that women consume 400 mcg of folic acid daily to help prevent neural tube defects in the developing fetus. Folic acid, a B vitamin, plays an essential role in DNA synthesis and cell division, making it crucial for proper fetal development, particularly in the early stages of pregnancy when the neural tube is forming.

The recommendation of 400 mcg per day is based on research that demonstrates this amount significantly reduces the risk of neural tube defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly. Many health organizations, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), endorse this guideline to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and the developing baby.

While the other amounts listed may be higher than this recommended dosage, they are not typically advised for general supplementation without specific medical reasons. Higher doses may be appropriate in certain cases, such as for women with a history of neural tube defects, but the standard recommendation for general pregnancy wellness remains at 400 mcg per day.