What is folic acid?
o Folic acid is a b vitamin. Folate is the natural form found in foods, folic acid is the synthetic version of folate.
Folic acid and pregnancy
o Getting folic acid before and during pregnancy is very important because it can reduce the risk of neural tube defects.
o These birth defects happen in the first few weeks of pregnancy, usually before a woman even knows she is pregnant.
Why is it important?
o Folic acid is important for proper development including producing DNA and cell growth and reproduction
How much should I get?
o typical dosing is 250 mcg daily
o women of childbearing age should take 400 mcg daily
o pregnant women should take 600 mcg daily
How do I get folic acid?
o Food: spinach, leafy greens, beans, fortified cereals, pasta, and bread
o Supplementation: folic acid, multivitamins, prenatal vitamins