Site Dictionary

anencephaly- a type of NTD that results from improper development of the upper portion of the neural tube (brain). This condition is fatal and results in malformation of the brain. Facial abnormalities and absence of the skull may be present. Many anencephaly pregnancies result in miscarriage. Infants born with this condition die soon after birth.

enriched grains- grains (wheat, rice, corn, etc.) and grain products (cereal, pasta, bread, etc.) that have vitamins added after processing. The Enrichment Act of 1942 states that thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and iron must be added to refined grain products. Now folic acid is also added.

folate- the form of the B vitamin found naturally in some foods. Many times the general term "folate" is used to describe the naturally occuring form of the vitamin and the form used in supplements (i.e., folic acid). Folate is needed by the body on a daily basis and is used for proper cell division and healthy tissues.

folic acid- the synthetic (man-made) form of the water-soluble B vitamin that is found in vitamin supplements and fortified foods. This vitamin dramatically reduces the risk of neural tube defects.

folic acid supplement- a small pill that contains only folic acid.

folic acid fortified food- a food to which folic acid has been added.

hydrocephalus- water on the brain.

meninges- the membranes that envelop the brain and spinal cord.

multivitamin- a type of supplement that contains more than one vitamin and/or mineral.

neural tube- the part of the embryo that becomes the brain and spinal cord.

neural tube defects (NTDs)- a group of birth defects that involve the central nervous system. These defects of the spinal cord and/or brain result from failure of the neural tube to properly form.

spina bifida- a type of NTD that results from improper development of the lower portion of the neural tube (the spine). Spina bifida is characterized by protrusion of the spinal cord components outside the body. Complications include varying degrees of disability, including lower extremity paralysis, learning disabilities, loss of bowel or bladder control, and hydrocephalus (water on the brain).

vitamin B12 deficiency- a condition which results from inadequate intake or malabsorption of vitamin B12. This condition causes impaired cell division, especially in the bone marrow and intestines, where cells divide rapidly. With the slower cell division, abnormaly large cells result (a condition known as megaloblastic anemia). If untreated, this deficiency can produce neurological problems. Symptoms include numbness and tingling of extremities, and stiffness and weakness of the legs. Large amounts of folic acid have been found to delay detection of vitamin B12 deficiency. Vitamin B12 deficiency is not common in women of childbearing age, but is more common in the elderly.