During pregnancy, women are often told to take folic acid supplements to prevent birth defects. Folic acid, a synthetic form of folate, is an essential nutrient that the body needs to create red blood cells and DNA.

However, there have been concerns about whether too much folic acid can be harmful to both the mother and the developing fetus. In this article, we will explore the evidence and answer the question: Is too much folic acid harmful during pregnancy?.

What Is Folate and Why Is It Important for Pregnancy?

Folate is a B-vitamin that is naturally found in foods like leafy green vegetables, beans, and citrus fruits.

During pregnancy, folate is especially important because it helps with the development of the neural tube, which becomes the spinal cord and brain of the developing fetus. If the neural tube does not close properly, it can result in birth defects such as spina bifida.

For this reason, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all women of reproductive age consume 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid daily, and that pregnant women increase this to 600-800 mcg depending on their individual needs.

Can You Have Too Much Folic Acid During Pregnancy?

While folic acid is essential for a healthy pregnancy, taking too much of it can have consequences.

There is some evidence to suggest that excessive folic acid intake can increase the risk of certain health problems for both the mother and the fetus, such as:.

1. Multiple Births

One study found that women who consumed more than 1,000 mcg of folic acid per day were more likely to have twins or other multiple births compared to women who consumed less than 800 mcg per day.

This is because folic acid can increase the likelihood of ovulation, which can lead to multiple eggs being released and fertilized.

2. Childhood Allergies

A study published in the journal Pediatrics found that children born to mothers who took high doses of folic acid during pregnancy were more likely to develop allergies.

The researchers speculated that this might be due to the impact of excess folic acid on the developing immune system.

3. High Blood Pressure

Some research has suggested that women who take high doses of folic acid during pregnancy may be more likely to develop high blood pressure.

This is because folic acid can increase levels of homocysteine in the blood, which can contribute to cardiovascular problems.

4. Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Excessive folic acid intake can mask a vitamin B12 deficiency, which can be especially problematic during pregnancy. Vitamin B12 is important for brain and nervous system development, and a deficiency can cause permanent damage to the fetus.

How Much Folic Acid Is Too Much?

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends that adults do not exceed 1,000 mcg of folic acid per day, and that pregnant women do not exceed 1,000-1,400 mcg per day depending on their individual needs.

However, it can be difficult to determine exactly how much folic acid a woman is getting from her diet and supplements, so it’s important to talk to a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage.

Conclusion

While folic acid is essential for a healthy pregnancy, taking too much of it can have negative consequences. Women should aim to get the recommended amount of folic acid from their diet and supplements, and avoid exceeding the recommended daily limit.

It’s important to talk to a healthcare provider about any concerns regarding folic acid intake during pregnancy.