Spina bifida is a birth defect with incomplete closure of spine and spinal cord. Three main types: occulta, meningocele, and myelomeningocele. Occulta is mildest form with hairy patch or dimple. Myelomeningocele is most severe form with spinal cord and nerve damage. Caused by combination of genetic and environmental factors
Anencephaly is absence of brain, skull, and scalp during embryonic development. Occurs when neural tube fails to close between 23rd and 26th day after conception. Usually affects only telencephalon, largest part of brain. Can be diagnosed prenatally through ultrasound and AFP screening
NTDs are birth defects with openings in spine or cranium from early development. Affects over 300,000 births worldwide each year. US prevalence decreased from 5/10,000 to 0.035% after folate fortification
Daily 400 micrograms folic acid needed from before pregnancy until 12 weeks. Higher dose (5mg) recommended for high neural tube defect risk. Natural folate sources include leafy greens and breakfast cereals
Prenatal vitamins help fill nutrient gaps during pregnancy. Folic acid prevents neural tube defects in fetal brain and spinal cord. Iron supports placenta development and oxygen supply to fetus
Zinc and folic acid supplementation improves sperm count in both fertile and subfertile men. Marmite contains 100 micrograms of folic acid per 4g serving. Eight medium oysters provide 39mg zinc, four times daily recommended intake. Dark chocolate contains more antioxidants than other superfoods