Taking folic acid is an essential step in preparing your body for pregnancy. It is a B-vitamin that helps in the production of new cells, particularly in the development of the neural tube in the fetus.

A deficiency of folic acid can increase the risk of birth defects, such as spina bifida and anencephaly. Therefore, it is crucial to start taking folic acid before conception to ensure a healthy pregnancy. In this article, we will discuss the optimal time to start taking folic acid and the recommended dosage.

What is folic acid and why is it important?

Folic acid, also known as folate or vitamin B9, is a water-soluble vitamin that is naturally found in many foods, such as leafy green vegetables, citrus fruits, and fortified cereals.

It plays a vital role in the production of red blood cells and the synthesis and repair of DNA. During pregnancy, folic acid is crucial for the development of the neural tube, which later forms the baby’s brain and spinal cord.

The neural tube develops in the early stages of pregnancy, often before a woman even realizes she is pregnant. Therefore, it is important to have a sufficient amount of folic acid in your body from the moment you start trying to conceive.

By the time many women find out they are pregnant, the neural tube has already started to develop. That’s why taking folic acid before conception is crucial to reduce the risk of neural tube defects.

The optimal time to start taking folic acid

The ideal time to start taking folic acid is at least one month before trying to conceive. This preconception period is critical because it allows time for the stores of folic acid in your body to build up.

By starting early, you ensure that your body has enough folic acid to support the rapid cell division and development that occurs during the early stages of pregnancy.

Most experts recommend that women of childbearing age take 400-800 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid daily, even if they are not trying to conceive.

However, the dose may vary based on individual needs, so it is always best to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.

Folic acid dosage during pregnancy

While it is important to start taking folic acid before conceiving, it is equally important to continue taking it throughout your pregnancy. The recommended daily dosage of folic acid during pregnancy is 600-800 mcg.

If you have a higher risk of having a baby with a neural tube defect, your healthcare provider may recommend a higher dosage.

It is worth noting that the amount of folic acid obtained from food sources alone may not be sufficient during pregnancy.

That’s why it is often recommended to take a prenatal vitamin or a folic acid supplement to ensure you are getting an adequate amount.

Other considerations when taking folic acid

In addition to taking folic acid supplements, it is important to maintain a balanced and healthy diet. While folic acid is found naturally in many foods, it can be easily destroyed by cooking or processing.

Therefore, it is crucial to eat a variety of folate-rich foods, such as dark green leafy vegetables, legumes, fortified cereals, and citrus fruits.

It is also important to note that folic acid is a water-soluble vitamin, which means that any excess amounts are excreted through urine.

However, it is still essential to follow the recommended dosage and consult with your healthcare provider before starting any supplements.

The bottom line

When it comes to taking folic acid and trying to conceive, it is better to be safe than sorry.

Starting to take folic acid at least one month before conception is recommended to ensure that your body has enough of this important nutrient to support a healthy pregnancy. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the right dosage for your individual needs and to discuss any other concerns you may have.