. . "???Folic acid is an essential nutrient that can help prevent certain very serious birth defects of the brain and spine,??? said Dr. Jennifer L. Howse, President of the March of Dimes. ???All women who can become pregnant should eat a balanced diet, including foods that are rich in folic acid.??? The March of Dimes urges all women of childbearing age to consume 400 micrograms of folic acid daily be" . .