Folic acid is a type of B vitamin that is necessary for proper cell growth and development. It is especially important during pregnancy, as it helps to prevent birth defects of the brain and spine.

In this article, we will dive into everything you need to know about folic acid and pregnancy.

What is Folic Acid?

Folic acid is a B vitamin that is essential for the growth and development of cells. It helps the body make DNA and RNA, the building blocks of cells. Folic acid is also important for the proper development of the brain and spine.

Why is Folic Acid Important During Pregnancy?

Folic acid is important during pregnancy because it helps to prevent birth defects of the brain and spine, such as spina bifida and anencephaly. These defects occur in the first few weeks of pregnancy, before many women even know they are pregnant.

That is why it is important for women of childbearing age to get enough folic acid.

How Much Folic Acid Do You Need?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all women of childbearing age consume 400-800 micrograms of folic acid every day.

Women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant should consume 600-800 micrograms of folic acid every day.

What are the Best Sources of Folic Acid?

Folic acid can be found in many foods, including:.

Leafy green vegetables, such as spinach and kale
Beans and legumes, such as black beans and lentils
Fruits, such as oranges and strawberries
Fortified cereal and bread

In addition to getting folic acid from food, many women take a folic acid supplement to make sure they are getting enough.

When Should You Start Taking Folic Acid?

The CDC recommends that all women of childbearing age start taking folic acid at least one month before they become pregnant. This is because many birth defects occur in the first few weeks of pregnancy, before many women even know they are pregnant.

Can You Get Too Much Folic Acid?

It is possible to get too much folic acid from supplements, but it is difficult to get too much from food alone. Taking too much folic acid can mask the symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency, which can be serious if left untreated.

It is important to talk to your doctor about how much folic acid you need, especially if you are taking a supplement.

What Happens if You Don’t Get Enough Folic Acid?

If you don’t get enough folic acid, it can increase the risk of birth defects of the brain and spine. It may also increase the risk of preterm labor and low birth weight.

Can Folic Acid Help with Fertility?

Some studies have shown that folic acid may help women conceive and may improve the chances of a healthy pregnancy. However, more research is needed in this area.

The Bottom Line

Folic acid is an important nutrient for women of childbearing age, especially during pregnancy. It helps to prevent birth defects of the brain and spine, which can occur in the first few weeks of pregnancy.

Women should aim to get 400-800 micrograms of folic acid every day, either from food or a supplement. Talk to your doctor about how much folic acid you need and when to start taking it.