Folic Acid

Folic Acid

Folic acid is a water soluble vitamin and is mainly found in leafy green vegetables and fruits. It is important for the development of the neural tube in the baby and can help to prevent spina bifida. All women who are pregnant or planning a pregnancy should take a daily supplement of 400 micrograms of folic acid. Good sources of folic acid include spinach, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, avocado, oranges, and strawberries. Folic acid can also be found in fortified foods such as breads, cereals, pastas, and rice.

Women who have had a previous pregnancy with a neural tube defect are at an increased risk for having another child with a neural tube defect and should take a daily supplement of 4 milligrams (4000 micrograms) of folic acid. Some medications can interact with folic acid so it is important to speak to a healthcare provider before taking any supplements.

get redirected here  is an important nutrient for women of childbearing age and should be taken daily to help prevent birth defects."