Pregnancy And Folic Acid

About folic acid

Folic acid is the synthetic form of folate, or vitamin B9 as it is also known as. It plays a key role in many functions of the body, including methylation and cell division. It is found abundantly in dark green leafy vegetables like kale and spinach. Nuts, whole grain products, wheat germ, citrus fruits and their juices, dried beans, asparagus, romaine lettuce, broccoli, enriched pasta and bread, and liver are also good sources.

Why is it important during pregnancy?

You can lower your chances for common birth defects significantly by simply increasing your intake of vitamin B9. Studies done as far back as 1965 show a link between folic acid deficiency and neural tube birth defects. The neural tube is where the baby’s spine and brain develop. It is also vitally needed in the embryonic biosynthesis of DNA, RNA, and protein and is essential for rapid and healthy cell division as the baby grows. Women with a deficiency in this important vitamin have been known to give birth to babies with spina bifida and anencephaly. Premature births and low birth weights can also occur.

How to make sure you are getting enough folic acid in your diet

Check with your pre-natal care physician. A simple blood test can determine whether you are deficient. Fortified breads and pasta alone are not enough. One serving of these enhanced foods will only give you 10% of the recommended daily requirement. Your doctor may suggest over the counter supplements found in any health food store or adding more folic acid rich foods to your diet.

When should you be concerned about deficiency?

To guard against neural tube birth defects, it is critical for women to be concerned about their folic acid intake during their first trimester. If you are planning to have a baby, have your doctor check your folic acid level before you become pregnant. Make dietary changes then. It is also advisable to continue to be careful that you get enough vitamin B9 throughout the duration of your pregnancy.