Treatment includes therapy for the underlying cause and dietary supplementation with folic acid.
Folic acid helps to prevent birth defects such as spina bifida and other severe congenital spinal malformations in the newborn. Leafy green vegetables, liver, legumes, yeast, and some fruits such as strawberries and oranges are good sources of folic acid. If women of childbearing age do not consume a varied diet, they should consider taking a supplement containing 400 micrograms of folic acid. Folic acid may also aid in the prevention of heart disease. For this reason, it is wise to follow the Food Guide Pyramid's recommendations for fruits and vegetables.