FOLIC ACID

Folic acid is a B vitamin that is used to help generate additional blood your body needs during pregnancy. It is recommended that you should take at least 400 micrograms of folic acid a day and that goes up when you are pregnant.

When Do you start taking Folic Acid?

Ideally, you should be taking folic acid before you get pregnant, but the earlier your pregnancy the better. If you find you are pregnant and have not been taking folic acid, you should start now to help prevent any neural defects in the first three months of pregnancy.

Are their Risks from not taking Folic Acid

Yes, if you do not take folic acid this increases the chances of experiencing a neural tube defect,
which are defects in the development of the spinal cord. Spina bifida is one of the potential
conditions that may arise. The good news is that in most cases you are getting some folic acid in
your daily eating habits.
What foods contain folic acid?
Here is a list of food that can help provide you with natural folic acid:
• Leafy green vegetables, such as a large spinach salad
• Citrus fruits, such as orange juice
• Beans
• Breads
• Cereals
• Rice
• Pastas

How to best prevent neural defects?

The best way to prevent neural defects is to take the recommended 400 micrograms of folic acid
daily, for one month before conception and during the first three months of pregnancy. Multivitamins
that include folic acid should only be used as a supplement under the care of your health care
provider.