A naturally occurring B vitamin,
folic acid aids in the development of an unborn baby's neural
tube into a properly functioning brain and spinal cord. When
taken daily at least one month before pregnancy, 400 mcg of
folic acid may significantly reduce the likelihood of neural
tubes defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly. Even if
you're not planning on becoming pregnant, you still need to
add folic acid to your daily diet: Researchers believe it
may help prevent cancer, heart disease and osteoporosis. So
play it safe, play it smart — and start taking folic
acid.
