What is the recommended daily intake of folate for women of childbearing age to prevent neural tube defects?

• A. 200 micrograms per day.
• B. 100 micrograms per day.
• C. 400 micrograms per day.
• D. 800 micrograms per day.

Answer: (C)

Folate supports DNA synthesis and rapid cell growth, which is crucial in early fetal development. The neural tube, which forms the brain and spinal cord, closes very early in pregnancy—often before a woman even knows she’s pregnant. Because many pregnancies aren’t planned, women who could become pregnant should have a steady daily intake of folate before conception and in early pregnancy. The standard recommendation is 400 micrograms per day, usually from a combination of folic acid in fortified foods and a daily supplement (such as a prenatal vitamin). This amount helps reduce the risk of neural tube defects. Higher doses (for example, 4,000 micrograms daily) are reserved for certain high-risk situations under medical supervision. The other options are either too low to provide the protective effect or not needed for routine prevention.