Folic acid

Folic acid (Vitamin B9) is the synthetic form of folate, crucial for making new cells, DNA, and red blood cells, preventing anemia, and vital for preventing severe brain and spine birth defects (Neural Tube Defects) in babies, especially in early pregnancy, so it's in fortified foods and prenatal vitamins. Everyone needs it, but women who can get pregnant should take 400 mcg daily, as deficiency causes anemia and NTDs, while sources include leafy greens, fortified grains, and beans.