Folic acid is a B vitamin that helps to prevent birth defects of the brain and spinal cord, also known as neural tube defects (NTD). More than 2,500 babies are born with a NTD each year. The neural tube is the embryonic structure that develops into the brain and spinal cord. By the 28th day after conception, the neural tube is formed. The most common NTD's are spina bifida and anencephaly.
Every woman of childbearing age should get 400 micrograms of folic acid a day. Studies have proven that if all women of childbearing age would take the recommended amount of folic acid, then neural tube defects would be reduced by 70%!
Folic acid can also protect women and men from heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers. For more information on Folic acid and NTD's, go to www.getfolic.com.