Why is folic acid (Vitamin B9) recommended for pre-conception planning?
It is critical for preventing severe neural tube defects in the spine and brain
Folic acid, or Vitamin B9, is fundamentally important for women planning pregnancy because of its indispensable role in early embryonic development. This B vitamin is necessary for the rapid synthesis of new cells and the accurate formation of DNA, processes that are highly active immediately following conception. Adequate folate stores are crucial before conception because insufficient levels significantly increase the risk of severe birth abnormalities involving the central nervous system, specifically neural tube defects such as spina bifida, which affects the brain and spinal cord. Building up these stores through dietary intake like eating asparagus is strongly encouraged prior to becoming pregnant.
