Benefits of folic acid during pregnancy Pregnancy is quite a gruelling time for the body. The body demands extra nutrition – carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals – in order to support the growing life within. One of the most important nutrients that you must’ve heard of, time and again, is folic acid. Folic acid is believed to be the superhero of all vitamins when it comes to pregnancy. It is one of the B vitamins responsible for ensuring a healthy pregnancy – for the mother and child.
What is folic acid? Folic acid a man-made form of vitamin B9, also called folate - that pregnant women are advised to consume 400mcg of, every day. Since most birth defects are believed to occur in the first 3-8 weeks of pregnancy, the need for folic acid is especially high for pregnant women at this time to ensure the proper development of the brain, blood cells, and spinal chord. What are the benefits of folic acid during pregnancy? Folic acid primarily helps aid brain and spinal development. A severe deficit of this vitamin in the body during pregnancy can lead to: a. b. c. d. e.
Spina bifida: Underdeveloped spinal cord or vertebrae in the baby Anencephaly: Underdeveloped brain in the baby Cleft lip or palate Premature birth Miscarriage
According to the CDC, “If you've already had a baby with a neural tube defect, getting enough folic acid may reduce your risk of having another child with a neural tube defect by as much as 70%. If you have had a previous child with a neural tube defect, tit is recommended that you increase your daily amount of folic acid to 4000 mcg (same as 4 mg) each day.”
Pregnant ladies are advised to with their physician on how much nutrients they must consume. Additionally, folic acid has been linked to a reduced risk of several conditions in women in general, some of which are: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Pregnancy complications like pre-eclampsia Heart disease Stroke Alzheimer’s And certain forms of cancer
What are naturally good sources of folic acid? Here are a few foods that are naturally rich in folic acid: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Beef liver Lentils Spinach Beans Citrus fruits Fortified rice and noodles
If you are trying to conceive, then it is a good idea to start taking a prenatal vitamin with folic acid. One study showed that women, who took folic acid for at least a year before getting pregnant, cut their chances of having a premature delivery by at least 50%. In case of pregnant women, since they need a specific quantity of this nutrient, we advise that you consult a dietician to determine the quantities of these foods you must consume to receive the desired nutrition. For more health, wellness and fitness articles visit- healthhunt.in