What is folic acid & why do we need it?

What is folic acid? 

Folic acid or folate is one of the B vitamins. Manufactured Folic acid is converted into folate by the body and is used as a dietary supplement.

Who needs folic acid?

Folic acid is needed for all women during early pregnancy and those who want to conceive, but because pregnancy often happens unplanned folic acid is suggested for all women of childbearing years.

Why is folic acid important?

Folic acid is a vital nutrient for the development of babies in the womb. During the early weeks of pregnancy, the fetal brain and spinal cord are developing very quickly. Folic acid is needed to support this development. Folic acid helps reduce the risk of serious birth defects such as spina bifida. It’s also important to make DNA and other genetic material.

Many women don’t get enough folic acid from their diet so a supplement of 400 micrograms of folic acid per day is advised.

A healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet is important at any stage of your life but especially important during pregnancy.

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