Folic Acid Pregnancy
Must-Know about Folic Acid Pregnancy: What You and Your Baby Need
Making sure that your baby is healthy during your pregnancy means you should be healthy as well. And to make sure that you are living a healthy pregnancy moments, not to mention to make sure that your baby will not suffer from any birth defects, folic acid pregnancy should be highly emphasized.
What Is Folic Acid Pregnancy?
Folate or folic acid is one of the key nutrients to achieve healthy pregnancy. Pregnant women are in dire need of folic acid because folic acid is responsible in carrying the DNA which contains the genetic information that controls the developments and functions of cells found in the body. Proper supply of folic acid means correct formation and development of the DNA. Hence, it is encouraged that pregnant women should have a good intake of folic acid. They should start taking folic acid at the first 12 weeks of the pregnancy period. During the 12-week period, the neural tube of the baby is forming. To avoid neural defects which include spina bifida or anencephaly (abnormality in brain development) the mother should take folic acid supplements.
Why Folic Acid Pregnancy Supplements Are Extremely Essential?
Pregnant women are prone to life-threatening diseases. They are extremely fragile, as vulnerable as their baby growing inside their womb. Hence, it is recommended that they have to think about their welfare and their baby’s welfare, too. By taking folic acid supplements, the chance of having birth defects and other abnormalities during the conception is slim. A balanced diet rich in folates or folic acid also count in terms of reducing birth defects.
If the mother has had a child with a neural tube defect there will be a greater risk of having another. Hence, care providers advise this mother to take higher dosage of folic acid to avoid a second time. Doctors normally prescribe the intake of folic acid among pregnant women though they are widely available in pharmacies and department stores. Pregnant women suffering from epilepsy should have a special prescription of folic acid by their doctor to ensure safety and protection during the pregnancy period.
What are the Foods Rich in Folic Acid?
Yes, pregnant women can take folic acid pregnancy supplements but eating food rich in folates is also a good practice. The good sources of folic acids are the green leafy vegetables like sprouts, spinach, and broccoli. Beans, cabbage, potatoes, cauliflower, and peas also provide rich supply of folic acid. Citrus fruits and kiwis are another good source of folates. Pregnant women should not also skip their breakfast and by eating cereals and breads, they are building a good supply of folic acid inside their body, for them and for their baby.
Folic acid pregnancy is something that every mother should be aware of. If every mother is equip with the right knowledge and good results of taking folic acid-containing supplements and foods, they will surely get benefited as they wait for the birth of their dear baby.
