A nurse is teaching an adolescent client who is trying to conceive. Which of the following should the nurse identify as a primary intervention to prevent neural tube defects?

A. Calcium is essential for bone health but does not directly prevent neural tube defects. B. Iron is important for preventing anemia but is not specifically linked to the prevention of neural tube defects. C. Zinc plays a role in reproductive health but is not specifically related to preventing neural tube defects. D. Folate (also known as folic acid) is critical for preventing neural tube defects, such as spina bifida, during early pregnancy. It is recommended that women trying to conceive take folic acid supplements before conception and during the first trimester.