The Importance of Folic Acid

What is Folic Acid?

Folic acid (folate) is a B vitamin that is needed to create new cells in the body. The body does not store very much folic acid and you need a good supply of it in order to stay healthy. Pregnant women in particular need a good supply of folic acid, which is used by the developing baby. The very early stages of pregnancy are crucial in the need for folic acid. This is why folic acid supplements are recommended for women planning a pregnancy.

Some food that’s that contain folic acid include green leafy vegetables such as spinach, sprouts, broccoli, green beans, and potatoes.  Sunflower seeds and egg yolks are high in folic acid. Flour, pasta and brown rice also contain folic acid, as do some breads and breakfast cereals.  

Even if you are healthy and fit and have a good diet, you should still take folic acid supplements for the first 12 weeks of your pregnancy.

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 Why do you need Folic Acid?

Everyone needs folic acid as it helps to produce health red blood cells and is especially important for cell division and production. Taking folic acid helps the brain development of your baby and can help prevent birth defects such as Spina Bifida and cleft palate. Not having enough folic acid in your body can also cause anemia. 

The first 12 weeks of pregnancy is when the baby’s brain and nerve system are developing rapidly, which is why taking folic acid during this time is so important.

How much Folic Acid do you need?

The recommended daily dose of Folic Acid ranges from a 400 microgram tablet to an 800 microgram tablet per day. Usually a 400 microgram tablet is adequate but there are some women who may need the higher dosage. Higher dosages of folic acid are needed by women who have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more or are taking medication for certain conditions such as:

·         Epilepsy

·         Diabetes

·         Arthritis

·         Asthma

·         Celiac disease

·         Sickle cell disease

·         Psoriasis

If you are taking medication for any condition, speak to your doctor about how much folic acid you need. You may need to take a higher dosage as some medicines can interfere with your body’s ability to absorb folic acid. 

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