What is a key priority in providing care for a pregnant client regarding nutrition?

Ensuring adequate intake of folic acid is crucial during pregnancy because it plays a vital role in the proper development of the fetus. Folic acid helps prevent neural tube defects, which can affect the brain and spinal cord of the developing baby. Adequate levels of folic acid are associated with a lower incidence of these serious birth defects. Health professionals typically recommend that pregnant women take prenatal vitamins that contain folic acid, along with consuming foods rich in this nutrient such as leafy greens, legumes, and fortified cereals. This focus on folic acid is essential for supporting brain and spinal health in the growing fetus, highlighting why it is a key priority in prenatal nutrition.