Updates throughout to text, information, guidelines, formatting and sources, and new medical review.
It can help prevent major birth defects ofbaby’s brainandspine, commonly referred to as neural tube defects.
What is folic acid and what does it do?
Folic acid/folate is found in vitamins and fortified foods like bread, pasta and cereals.
Its also in dark leafy greens, beans, peas and nuts.
Thisnutrienthelps the body break down, use and create new proteins, the building blocks of our cells.
It also plays a role in DNA creation and the formation of red blood cells.
Why is taking folic acid during pregnancy so important?
Folic acid is an essential component to this complicated process.
Adequate dietary or supplemental folic acid decreases the risk of a neural tube defect likespina bifidaby 72 percent.
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Folic acid also assists in the formation ofbaby’s heart and circulatory system.
Because folic acid is water-soluble, your body isnt able to store an excess amount.
What are some other benefits of folic acid?
Folic acid has many benefits for your pregnancy and your unborn baby.
Youre at high risk if:
Youve had a baby with a neural tube defect in the past.
You or your partner has a neural tube defect.
Your partner has a child with a neural tube defect.
When should you start taking a prenatal vitamin with folic acid?
Talk to your doctor about when to start taking folic acid daily.
Remember: Many daily multivitamins (as well as fortified foods) already contain folic acid/folate.
What are the best foods with folate?
That said, a vitamin or supplement can’t replace a healthy diet.
you might either continue to take your prenatal vitamin or a supplement designed for breastfeeding moms.
Keep up the good work on the nutrition front by taking your daily prenatal vitamin containing folic acid.
