A nurse is teaching a client who is trying to conceive. Which of the following should the nurse instruct the client to increase in their diet to prevent a neural tube defect?

Folate (folic acid) is essential for proper closure of the neural tube during early fetal development. The CDC recommends 400–800 mcg of folic acid daily before conception and during early pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly. Zinc supports immune function, calcium builds bone density, and iron prevents anemia — none of these directly prevent neural tube defects.