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Neural tube defects

What is known about preventing neural tube defects in children.

Neural tube defects are malformations of the brain and spinal cord that develop in the first weeks of pregnancy. A low maternal folate level is a recognised risk factor. Here you find what studies and the authorised EU health claim say – with evidence level and sources. Talk to your doctor about folic acid before a pregnancy.

Nutrients & foods

  • Evidence: strong

    Folate

    • Supplemental folic acid increases maternal folate status. Low maternal folate status is a risk factor for neural tube defects in the developing foetus. [1][2]

      Authorised EU claim

Sources

  1. 01Official Journal of the European Union · 2014Commission Regulation (EU) No 1135/2014 on the authorisation of a health claim made on foods and referring to the reduction of disease riskOpen source
  2. 02Cochrane · 2015Folic acid supplements before conception and in early pregnancy (up to 12 weeks) for the prevention of birth defectsDe-Regil et al.Open source