Folate

Folate is a B vitamin and its primary function is to make new cells. The daily requirement of folate is 400 micrograms for adults and 600 to 800 micrograms for pregnant women. A 1 cup serving of cooked collard greens contains 177 micrograms. Folate supports a healthy nervous system and helps close the neural tubes of unborn babies, which reduces the risk of certain birth defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly. The vitamin might also reduce the risk of heart defects and cleft lip, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.