Folic Acid has been found to reduce neural tube problems like spina bifida. It is especially beneficial to take in the 1st trimester because this is when baby is growing their brain and spinal cord. If you have no family history of neural tube issues, the recommendation is to take a 500 microgram supplement each day. There isn't any probs if you take excess. You can also boost your levels through diet, but the supplement still recommended for pregnant women.