If you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant, you’ve probably heard about the importance of getting enough folic acid. Folic acid is a type of B vitamin that’s crucial for fetal development, especially during the early stages of pregnancy. But what exactly is folic acid, why is it so essential, and how should you incorporate it into your pregnancy journey? We’ve consulted with three OB-GYNs to shed light on your burning questions about folic acid during pregnancy.
What Is Folic Acid? Folic acid is a member of the B vitamin family that our bodies need to produce new red blood cells. When you don’t have enough red blood cells, you can develop a condition known as anemia. Folic acid is naturally present in leafy green vegetables, fruits, and nuts. It’s also added to certain foods like bread and cereal as a fortifier and is a common component of many vitamin supplements.
Why Is Folic Acid Important Before and During Pregnancy? Folic acid is crucial for everyone, but it becomes especially vital for those who are pregnant or planning to conceive. It plays a pivotal role in the normal development of a baby’s nervous system. As Dr. Amy Wetter, a board-certified OB-GYN, explains, “Folic acid is essential for forming the neural tube, which ultimately becomes the early brain and spine. Adequate levels of folic acid can help prevent birth defects affecting the brain and spine.”
Beyond preventing neural tube defects, folic acid can also reduce the risk of other birth defects like cleft lip and palate. Additionally, it supports the growth and development of the placenta, which supplies nutrients and oxygen to the growing baby and may help prevent complications like preterm labor and preeclampsia, according to Dr. Anisha Farishta, an OB-GYN.
When Should You Start Taking Folic Acid Supplements? The common perception is that folic acid supplements are necessary as soon as you become pregnant. However, medical experts recommend starting supplementation even before conception. Dr. Maggie Richter, an OB-GYN, advises taking folic acid supplements for at least one to three months before becoming pregnant and continuing throughout the pregnancy. The most critical period for folic acid intake is during the first six to eight weeks of pregnancy, as this is when the neural tube is forming.
For those who do not plan their pregnancies or are at risk of unplanned pregnancies, Dr. Richter suggests taking a folic acid supplement as a precaution.
How Much Folic Acid Should You Take? The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that pregnant individuals consume approximately 600 micrograms of folic acid daily. To ensure you meet this requirement, it’s suggested to take a daily prenatal vitamin with at least 400 micrograms of folic acid at least one month before pregnancy. You should also focus on consuming foods rich in folate.
Before pregnancy, a daily intake of 400 micrograms of folic acid is recommended. However, some individuals may require more, especially if they’ve had previous pregnancies affected by neural tube defects or are taking specific medications. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the right folic acid dosage for your situation.
Who Shouldn’t Take Folic Acid? In general, folic acid supplementation is safe for most individuals. However, there are specific scenarios where caution is advised. If you’ve had an allergic reaction to folic acid in the past or have a history of certain types of cancers, seizures, or vitamin B12 deficiencies, you may need to avoid folic acid supplements. Dr. Wetter emphasizes the importance of consulting with a healthcare provider before taking any medication or supplement.
Best Ways to Take Folic Acid During Pregnancy ACOG recommends obtaining folic acid through both supplements and food sources. Prenatal vitamins are a convenient option, typically containing 400 micrograms of folic acid. If swallowing pills is challenging due to morning sickness or food aversions, choose a supplement that suits your preferences.
Folic acid can also be acquired through food sources, including fortified grains such as bread, cereals, pasta, rice, and flour, as mandated by the FDA. You can identify these fortified products by checking the food label. Additionally, many natural food sources contain folate, the naturally occurring form of folic acid. These include dark leafy greens (like spinach and kale), oranges, bananas, lentils, black-eyed peas, avocados, asparagus, beef liver, and Brussels sprouts.
If you have further questions about folic acid during pregnancy or require recommendations for specific supplements, it’s advisable to consult with an OB-GYN or healthcare provider.