When a woman gets pregnant, she enters into a very delicate phase of her life where she has to take very good care of herself in order to contribute to the healthy development of the baby.

One of the most crucial things that a pregnant woman needs to ensure is to take good care of is her diet. A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients is vital for the healthy growth of the fetus. One such important nutrient that a pregnant woman should never miss out on is folic acid.

What is Folic Acid?

Folic acid is also known as vitamin B9 or folate. It is a type of B-vitamin that is essential for the overall development and growth of the body. Folic acid is not only important for pregnant women, but also for men and women of all ages.

The body needs folic acid to produce new cells. It also helps in the formation of DNA and RNA which are vital for building the body’s genetic material.

Why is Folic Acid Important During Pregnancy?

When a woman becomes pregnant, the body starts to undergo a lot of changes to accommodate the growing fetus.

One of the most important things that happen during this time is the development of the neural tube which eventually forms the baby’s brain and spinal cord. This happens during the first few weeks of pregnancy, even before the woman realizes that she is pregnant.

The neural tube should close completely by the end of the fourth week of pregnancy. If it does not close properly, it can cause a serious birth defect known as neural tube defects.

This can lead to developmental delays, physical disabilities and even death. Taking folic acid before and during pregnancy can significantly reduce the risk of neural tube defects in babies.

How Much Folic Acid is Required During Pregnancy?

The recommended daily intake of folic acid during pregnancy is 600-800 mcg. Women who are planning to get pregnant should start taking folic acid at least one month before trying to conceive.

This helps to build up the body’s stores of this crucial nutrient. It is important to continue taking folic acid throughout the first trimester of pregnancy as this is the critical period for the development of the neural tube.

Sources of Folic Acid

There are several food sources of folic acid. Some of the foods that are rich in folic acid include:.

Leafy green vegetables like spinach, broccoli, and kale
Fruits and fruit juices like oranges, bananas, strawberries and raspberries
Beans like lentils, chickpeas, and black beans
Nuts and seeds like peanuts and sunflower seeds
Fortified cereals and grains like whole wheat bread, brown rice, and oatmeal

In addition to these dietary sources, pregnant women can also take folic acid supplements to ensure they are getting enough of this essential nutrient.

Health Benefits of Folic Acid for Infants and Mothers

In addition to reducing the risk of neural tube defects, taking folic acid during pregnancy has several other health benefits for both the mother and the infant. These include:.

1. Prevents Anemia in Pregnancy

Anemia is a common condition in pregnancy, and it can cause a host of problems for both the mother and the baby. Folic acid helps to produce red blood cells, which helps to prevent anemia.

2. Helps in the Proper Growth and Develpment of the Fetus

Folic acid plays a crucial role in the proper growth and development of the fetus. It helps to form the placenta, which is the life-support system for the baby. It also helps in the development of the baby’s brain and nervous system.

3. Reduces the Risk of Preterm Labor and Delivery

Preterm labor and delivery are serious complications of pregnancy that can lead to a host of problems for both the mother and the baby. Taking folic acid reduces the risk of preterm labor and delivery.

4. Reduces the Risk of Pregnancy Complications

Folic acid supplementation has been shown to reduce the risk of several pregnancy complications, including preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and fetal growth restriction.

These are serious conditions that can greatly impact the health of both the mother and the baby.

5. Improves the Mood and Reduces the Risk of Depression

Pregnancy is a time of great emotional and physical changes, and many women experience mood swings and depression. Folic acid supplementation has been shown to improve the mood and reduce the risk of depression in pregnant women.

Conclusion

Folic acid is a crucial nutrient that pregnant women should never miss out on. It is essential for the healthy development and growth of the fetus.

Women who are planning to get pregnant should start taking folic acid supplements at least one month before trying to conceive. They should continue taking these supplements throughout the first trimester of pregnancy to reduce the risk of neural tube defects and other pregnancy complications. A balanced diet rich in folic acid is also important.

Pregnant women should eat plenty of leafy green vegetables, fruits, beans, nuts, and fortified cereals and grains.