Neural Tube Defects Are A Result Of Which Vitamin Deficiency
Neural tube defects (NTDs) are serious birth defects that can affect a baby's brain, spine, or spinal cord. These defects occur when the neural tube, which forms the baby's brain and spinal cord, does not develop properly during the first month of pregnancy. The most common NTDs are spina bifida, anencephaly, and encephalocele.
What Causes Neural Tube Defects?
The exact cause of NTDs is unknown, but research has shown that a lack of folate, a B vitamin, is a major risk factor. Folate helps to form the neural tube, and a deficiency in this vitamin can lead to abnormal development of the brain and spinal cord.
Other risk factors for NTDs include genetics, certain medications, and medical conditions such as obesity and diabetes. Women who have previously had a baby with an NTD are also at an increased risk.
The Importance of Folate
Folate is essential for the proper development of the nervous system, and a deficiency in this vitamin can have serious consequences. In addition to causing NTDs, folate deficiency has been linked to an increased risk of miscarriage, low birth weight, and other birth defects.
Because the neural tube develops very early in pregnancy, it is important for women to have adequate levels of folate before they even become pregnant. The recommended daily intake of folate for women of childbearing age is 400-800 micrograms per day.
Sources of Folate
Folate is found naturally in many foods, including leafy green vegetables, citrus fruits, and beans. It is also added to many grains and cereals in the form of folic acid.
Women who are planning to become pregnant or who are already pregnant should talk to their healthcare provider about taking a folic acid supplement. In addition to a healthy diet, a daily supplement of 400-800 micrograms of folic acid can help to ensure that the baby's neural tube develops properly.
Preventing Neural Tube Defects
While not all NTDs can be prevented, there are steps that women can take to reduce their risk. These include:
- Taking a folic acid supplement before and during pregnancy
- Eating a healthy diet that includes folate-rich foods
- Managing any medical conditions, such as obesity or diabetes
- Avoiding certain medications that can increase the risk of NTDs
The Bottom Line
Neural tube defects are serious birth defects that can have lifelong consequences. While the exact cause of NTDs is unknown, a lack of folate is a major risk factor. By taking steps to ensure adequate folate intake, women can help to reduce their risk of NTDs and give their baby the best possible start in life.