Folic acid, also known as folate, is a B vitamin that plays an important role in cell growth and development. It is necessary for the formation of the neural tube, which later becomes the baby’s brain and spinal cord.

Proper neural tube formation occurs during the first 28 days of pregnancy, which is why it is crucial to have enough folic acid before and during early pregnancy.

Folic acid has been shown to reduce the risk of neural tube defects, such as spina bifida, in babies. It also helps prevent other birth defects, such as cleft palate and certain heart defects.

Folic acid is important for the prevention of miscarriage and low birth weight as well.

When Should You Start Taking Folic Acid?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all women of childbearing age should consume at least 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid daily.

Women who are planning to become pregnant should start taking folic acid at least one month before they start trying to conceive.

However, in case if you didn’t start taking folic acid prior 1 month before, it’s still important to start taking it as soon as you find out you’re pregnant – even if it’s already several weeks into your pregnancy.

The neural tube begins developing early on and it’s important for the baby to have enough folic acid as soon as possible.

How Should You take Folic Acid During Pregnancy?

The recommended daily amount of folic acid is 600-800 mcg during pregnancy. Most prenatal vitamins contain the recommended amount of folic acid, so taking one of these vitamins daily is an easy way to ensure you’re getting enough.

If you have already been taking a daily multivitamin that contains folic acid, check to see if it has the recommended amount.

Some multivitamins may not have enough folic acid, so it may be necessary to switch to a prenatal vitamin or take an additional folic acid supplement.

It is not recommended to consume more than 1,000 mcg of folic acid per day unless prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Are There Any Foods That Contain Folic Acid?

While taking prenatal vitamins containing folic acid is the most reliable way to get enough of this B vitamin, there are also certain foods that are high in folic acid such as leafy greens, legumes, citrus fruits, and fortified cereal.

Are There Any Risks Associated with Taking Folic Acid During Pregnancy?

Folic acid is considered safe for most women when taken during pregnancy. In rare cases, too much folic acid can mask a B12 deficiency, which can cause nerve damage if not treated.

It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about how much folic acid is right for you and to make sure you’re not taking too much.

: Conclusion

Folic acid is an essential nutrient for a healthy pregnancy. It is important to start taking folic acid before pregnancy to ensure proper neural tube formation and reduce the risk of birth defects.

If you’re already pregnant and haven’t been taking folic acid, it’s still important to start taking it as soon as possible. It’s best to consult with your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about taking folic acid.