How much folate is recommended prior to pregnancy?

The recommended intake of folate prior to pregnancy is 400 micrograms. This level of folate is important as it plays a vital role in fetal development, particularly in the early stages of pregnancy when neural tube development occurs. Adequate folate intake before and during pregnancy helps to prevent neural tube defects in the developing fetus. Health authorities, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), advocate for this amount to ensure that women of childbearing age obtain sufficient folate in preparation for a healthy pregnancy, as many pregnancies are not planned and neural tube formation occurs very early. This recommendation highlights the importance of folate in preventing potential developmental issues and promoting overall maternal health during conception and early pregnancy.