Which nutrient is essential to promote fetal neural development during preconception planning?

• A. Vitamin C
• B. Folic acid
• C. Calcium
• D. Iron

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that folic acid is crucial for neural tube formation very early in pregnancy, often before a woman knows she’s pregnant. Folic acid (vitamin B9) supports DNA synthesis and cell division, which are essential as the neural tube closes in the first few weeks after conception. Because this happens so early, planning to have adequate folate before conception helps prevent neural tube defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly. The typical prevention dose is about 400 micrograms daily for someone planning pregnancy, with a higher dose (around 4,000 micrograms daily) recommended if there’s a history of neural tube defects or other risk factors. While vitamin C, calcium, and iron are important for overall health in pregnancy, they don’t specifically influence early neural development in the way folic acid does. Vitamin C aids collagen and iron absorption, calcium supports fetal bone development, and iron helps with oxygen transport and placental function.