Thirty years ago Action Research discovered vital clues that folic acid was a key ingredient in helping prevent the neural tube defects - such as spina bifida - that currently account for 10 per cent of all birth defects. The vitamin's importance is now accepted by the scientific community.

However, according to a MORI survey, 44 per cent of women aged 15 to 55 still do not understand the benefits of the vitamin. Action Research is therefore launching an awareness drive to coincide with National Pregnancy week, from September 3.

The charity says that women can increase their intake of folic acid by ensuring that they "munch their greens", consume products fortified with folic acid such as some cereals and bread, and, most importantly, take daily supplements.

Former "Coronation Street" star, Denise Welch, who delivered her second child, Louis, earlier this year, is supporting the drive. "I didn't take folic acid at all in my first pregnancy because I didn't know anything about it - there wasn't enough awareness," she said.

"But as soon as I knew I was pregnant with Louis I took it immediately. When you're expecting, you do as much as you can to ensure it's a healthy pregnancy, be it cutting down on alcohol, stopping smoking, watching what you eat, or taking folic acid."

　　From Health-news.co.uk