This is one of the most important supplements, (if not the most important) to be used right before and up to the end of the first trimester.
It is advised that taking 400mcg of folic acid a day from the moment you start trying to conceive until you are 12 weeks pregnant will help prevent neural tube defects of your baby’s brain and spinal cord.
So why is it important ?
Folate is a B-group vitamin that is essential for good health, and is naturally present in many foods.
Folic acid is a form of folate, which is used in dietary supplements. It helps our bodies create new cells, which is why it is extremely important to be used in the very early stages of pregnancy. It helps to protect against spina bifida (where the bones of the spine don’t form properly around the spinal cord), or other problems affecting the baby’s spine and neural tube. It is also thought to reduce the risk of certain heart defects. It helps support the baby’s spinal development as a baby’s spine develops fully during the first month of pregnancy.
It is advised to start taking folic acid/folate at least 3 months before trying to conceive. or immediately you decide to start trying to conceive .
You are advised to stop taking folic acid after the 12th week of pregnancy as its really only essential when the baby cells are forming.
Folate is Folic acid in its natural form, and of course, there’s no harm in topping up the supplement with food sources. Foods that have folic acid include:
- green leafy vegetables, such as Spinach
- Broccoli
- green beans, peas and potatoes
- Eggs
- chickpeas and brown rice.
- some breakfast cereals, margarine and bread have folic acid added, these are called ‘fortified’ foods.
Might need a higher dose?
Some women in high risk groups of neural tube defects will need a high dose of about 5mg, but this needs to be discussed and assessed with your doctor . You should never attempt to take a higher dose than recommended without speaking to your doctor.
Disclaimer: This is not medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider before taking any supplement/drug.
