Folic Acid Benefits in Pregnancy

Folic acid is the synthetic version of folate, it is known as vitamin B that plays several roles in the human body. During pregnancy, one of its most important functions is preventing a group of birth abnormalities called neural tube defects and folic acid is the manufactured form of folate, an important B vitamin that occurs naturally and helps females in pregnancy. A pregnant woman can get folate in their diet by taking medical supplements and eating foods fortified with folic acid, such as some breakfast cereals. women can check the nutrition label to see whether a food is rampant with folic acid or not. Multiple foods including avocado, spinach, and banana contain folate, a naturally occurring form of this vitamin.

The neural tube is a structure in the female fetus that develops into the spinal cord and brain. Neural tube problems happen when the neural tube does not close early in development. This trouble can cause multiple disabilities, and it can even be fatal. This article by Mourf Life Sciences explains Folic Acid's benefits in pregnancy, when to take it, and how much to take. Folic acid is basically a human-made form of folate and folate is a type of B vitamin. Both males and females need folate, but it is especially important during pregnancy because of its role in preventing birth abnormalities.

Medical Benefits of Folic Acid

Folic acid helps the human body make new cells, including red blood cells. Both males and females who do not get enough folic acid may develop a condition called folate-deficiency anemia. In this condition, the body is not able to make enough red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout the body. This impairment can affect many features of health, including organ function.

During pregnancy, a female needs more folic acid than usual because folic acid also helps the develop and fetus grow. One of the most crucial roles of folic acid is preventing neural tube defects including anencephaly and spina bifida.

Spina bifida is a condition where the bones of the spinal cord do not fully close. It can lead to a range of disabilities that may affect mobility, development, and overall health. A baby in such conditions either does not develop a brain, or the brain is very underdeveloped. It is also suggested that folic acid may reduce the risk of pregnancy complications such as problems with the development of the placenta, preterm labor, and other birth abnormalities, such as cleft palate and heart disease.

Adequate Intake of Folic Acid

The Food and Nutrition Board recommends that adult males and females get 400 micrograms of folic acid per day, which should be increased to 600 mcg during pregnancy and then reduced slightly to 500 mcg when breastfeeding.

When to take Folic Acid

Every woman who wishes to become pregnant should start taking folic acid supplements before they start trying. The reason for this is that neural tube snagging occurs early in development, often before a person knows that they are pregnant. As about half of pregnancies are unplanned, experts recommend that any female who can get pregnant take folic acid supplements. Doing so ensures that even if your pregnancy is a surprise, the likelihood of neural tube snag is low. Folic acid is water soluble, which enables the body to metabolize it very soon. For this reason, those taking folic acid supplements need to take one every day and try to not miss any dose. There is no need to take the folic acid supplement at a specific time of day or with a meal. but, developing a habit, such as taking a prenatal vitamin every morning with breakfast, may make it easier to remember to take this supplement acid. In most cases, each folic acid tablet or multivitamin contains 400 mcg of folic acid, as a consumer you can check the folic acid supplement label to confirm this.

Conclusion 

In this article by Mourf Life Sciences, you will get to know about  Folic Acid's benefits in pregnancy. Folic acid is compulsory for every female who can get pregnant for better growth of the child. If you have any queries regarding this feel free to contact us we are always happy to help you.