The Importance of Folic Acid During Pregnancy
Folic acid is crucial for the healthy development of a fetus, significantly reducing the risk of neural tube defects like spina bifida. Ensuring adequate folic acid intake during pregnancy can promote a healthy spine and nervous system development in your baby.
Recommended Dosage of Folic Acid
It’s recommended that all women trying to conceive take 400 micrograms of folic acid daily, starting at least one year before pregnancy. This is especially important during the first trimester, when the baby’s spine is developing the most.
Increased Dosage for Higher Risk Women
If your BMI is 30 or above, your GP may recommend increasing your folic acid intake to 5mg. It’s essential to consult your GP for personalized recommendations if you are actively trying to conceive or have any underlying health conditions.
Starting Folic Acid After Conception
If you didn’t take folic acid before getting pregnant, start taking it as soon as you find out you’re pregnant. Many pregnancies are unplanned, so it’s important to begin supplementation immediately.
Folic Acid in Your Diet
Folic acid is naturally found in foods like leafy green vegetables, brown rice, whole-grain bread, and fortified breakfast cereals. While these foods are beneficial during pregnancy, they may not provide enough folic acid, making supplementation essential.
When Higher Doses Are Needed
Higher doses of folic acid are necessary for women with certain conditions, such as a family history of neural tube defects, previous pregnancies affected by these defects, or diabetes. In such cases, your GP will prescribe a higher dose and may recommend additional prenatal screenings.
Simplify Your Supplement Routine
Folic acid is commonly paired with a multivitamin, so it’s a good idea to establish a routine of taking your supplements at the same time each day. This will ensure you meet all your nutritional needs and reduce the chances of missing any essential vitamins.
About This Article
This article is brought to you by Momcozy in partnership with YourBabyClub, offering helpful tips and resources for expectant mothers navigating the challenges of pregnancy. For more practical solutions and expert advice, visit Momcozy.
