For the last hundred years people were having discussions on the importance of taking folic acid during pregnancy to prevent birth defects. This article aims to dispel misinformation and clarify misconceptions about the different forms of folate and their role in preventing birth defects.
Recently there was a lot of social media spam and advertising claiming you can replace folic acid with other vitamins or supplements. All those statements were proved to be wrong. Remember once and for all – taking folic acid is recommended to reduce risk of birth defects!
More insights on folic acid and its nature
Usage of this element during pregnancy is crucial for reducing the risk of birth defects. Folate is a B vitamin that is essential for cell growth and division. While folate is found in many different foods, not all forms are equally effective at preventing birth issues. Synthetic folic acid has been shown to be the most effective at reducing the risk of neural tube defects, which can cause severe physical and neurological disabilities in infants.
Natural folates may have some advantages over synthetic forms. Amongst advantages, doctors highlight ability to be more easily absorbed by the body. Unfortunately, natural folates are not always present in sufficient amounts to meet the recommended daily intake. In contrast, folic acid supplements and fortified foods provide a consistent and reliable source of folate.
What is the general recommendation of how much folic acid to take?
Studies have shown that taking folic acid before and during pregnancy can reduce the risk of neural tube defects and spina bifida, other neural disorders. In the United States, it is recommended that all women who are capable of becoming pregnant take 400 micrograms of folic acid daily, starting at least one month before conception and continuing through the first trimester of pregnancy. Women who have already had a pregnancy affected by a neural tube defect are advised to take a higher dose of folic acid, under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
It is important for expectant mothers to take folic acid supplements or consume fortified foods in needed amounts. Relying only on the natural/organic foods can be difficult to get enough folate from diet alone. The process cooking or processing food can reduce the amount of folate in it, lowering the positive effects for the woman and child. Supplements and fortified foods will provide a reliable source of folate in any amounts needed (prescribed by the professional doctor).
What birth defects exist caused by lack of folic acid?
Anencephaly and Spina bifida are both serious birth defects that can have devastating consequences for affected babies and their families.
Anencephaly occurs when parts of the baby’s brain and skull do not form correctly, leading to a very short life expectancy.
Spina bifida occurs when the baby’s spine does not form correctly, which can result in a range of physical disabilities. While the causes of these conditions are not entirely understood, research suggests that getting enough folic acid before and during pregnancy can help reduce the risk of these birth defects.
General recommendation
Be healthy before and during early pregnancy. Increase your chance of having a healthy baby. Plan ahead by getting 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid daily.
Content source: National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Taking folic acid during pregnancy is essential for reducing the risk of birth defects. Provide a consistent amount of needed nutrients and minerals is a must of every parent. Taking supplements is an effective way for expectant mothers to get the recommended daily intake of folate. By following these guidelines, women can help ensure the health and well-being of their developing baby.
The article provides valuable information for expectant mothers and healthcare professionals alike, more details on this can be found in the government studies, or factcheck.org study on this matter that has a lot of fact-checked sources concluding the same.