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How Important Is Folic Acid During Your Pregnancy?

Introduction 

Many micronutrient supplements are often marketed as helping women give their baby’s the best chance at healthy development. Folic acid in pregnancy (during, before, and after) is one of the most commonly recommended nutrients. Besides this, most obstetricians will tell you that a well-rounded diet should be enough for most women to stay healthy during their term.

If the mother has inadequate nutritional intake, supplements may help to support healthy overall nutrition during this time. Several studies have been conducted to explore how these nutrients can help expectant mothers and their children. Let’s dive into the importance of folic acid during pregnancy. 

What Is folic acid?

Folic acid is a manmade form of folate, also known as vitamin B9. When folic acid tablets for pregnancy or deficiency are used, the body converts folic acid into folate. Folate is a vital nutrient that the body needs from outside sources since we cannot make it ourselves. Usually, we get this nutrient from foods like peanuts, lentils, chickpeas as well as chicken liver, cheese and eggs

Folate is required by the body particularly when cell division takes place. It is used during DNA synthesis and for producing the amino acids that are involved in new cell creation. It is also important for the formation of healthy blood cells and for transforming carbs into energy. 

Universal prophylaxis for the general obstetric population — For most women, we recommend a folic acid supplement (multivitamin, prenatal vitamin) containing 0.4 mg once per day, beginning at least one month prior to attempting conception and continuing throughout pregnancy, in agreement with most national medical organizations.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

Folic acid during pregnancy

 folic acid during pregnancy has the strongest evidence for actually benefiting the mother and developing child. Folate (in the form of folic acid) has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of babies developing neural tube defects during pregnancy. Neural tube defects are a type of condition that affects the proper formation of the baby’s spinal cord and vertebrae.

There may be some other potential benefits of folic acid in pregnancy such as lower risks of cleft palate, premature birth, low weight at birth, poor foetal development. Pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia may also be reduced with regular folic acid intake during your term. Note that the evidence for these benefits is much lower than folate benefits against neural tube defects. 

An individual need not worry if they have not taken folic acid before conceiving or in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy inadvertently. It is still likely that the baby will develop normally. Routine ultrasound scans at around 12 and 20 weeks will detect if there are any concerns.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D

Also Read: Can Precum Cause Pregnancy? Dispelling Misconceptions About Conception

Should you take folic acid during pregnancy?

It will depend on your existing health condition and diet. If your obstetrician or doctor recommends taking this supplement then follow their instructions. If they think that your diet sufficiently covers the folate requirements of both you and your baby, they may not prescribe any supplements.  

High-dose prophylaxis for women at high risk of offspring with NTD — Women who are at higher risk of having a child with an NTD than the baseline population are candidates for higher (1 to 4 mg) dose folic acid supplementation. This dose should be initiated one to three months prior to conception and maintained through the first 12 weeks of gestation, after which the dose is reduced to 0.4 mg.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

When to start folic acid during pregnancy?

The WHO, CDC in the USA and many other medical bodies all recommend that folic acid should be taken starting from several weeks before you intend on getting pregnant. This is because the birth defects that folate is effective against usually happen within the first month of pregnancy. Hence it is very important to have sufficient amounts of folic acid before you are even pregnant. 

Also Read: Can You Get Pregnant Without Having Sex? Debunking Pregnancy Myths

Conclusion

While other supplements are not protective against mortality, birth defects and other such conditions, they are still essential for a balanced nutrition intake. Hence, your doctor may prescribe prenatal supplements regardless. Note that apart from folic acid and vitamin D, no supplements have shown strong evidence of protecting your baby from birth defects so be careful with products that suggest anything similar. And remember that diverse, nutritious food plays an even bigger role in maintaining your health during pregnancy.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

6 Vitamins and Minerals Essential For Your Body Needs!

Our food provides us with all the essential vitamins and minerals for the proper functioning of our body. These ensure that metabolic processes work correctly. The best way to obtain essential vitamins and minerals is through a balanced, healthy diet. If that doesn’t suffice, then supplements are recommended. The information about these vitamins and minerals can seem too much to comprehend. We bring you a simplified list of the essential vitamins and minerals that your body needs.

1. Vitamin A

It is needed for healthy sight, skin and hair. Vitamin A also ensures the proper growth of the body. It is essential for pregnant women as it prevents maternal mortality. It is found abundantly in carrots, citrus, melons and sweet potatoes.

Vitamins, minerals and micronutrients are very essential for various bodily functions, including maintenance of health, metabolism and healthy tissues. If you encounter some symptoms of deficiency of any of these essential elements, always consult a physician and start taking supplements.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D.

2. Vitamin B

These are needed for immunity, for producing energy, proper neural health, supple skin and iron absorption. Whole grains, pulses, beans, bananas and peppers.

3. Vitamin C

Vitamin C is rich in antioxidants, strengthens blood vessels, provides elasticity to the skin and improves iron absorption. Citrus fruits, peppers, grapefruits, cantaloupe, kiwi, strawberries and guava are abundant in this vitamin.

4. Vitamin D

This vitamin is needed for a healthy skeletal system. It regulates the calcium and phosphate quantities in the body. Spending some time in the sun daily is known to boost vitamin D levels in the body. Mushrooms are another excellent source of this vitamin.

Adding to the blog Vitamin H or biotin is very important for skin , nails and hair health and among the minerals selenium is also important as deficiency produces keshans disease. Zinc is a important mineral for children.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

5. Vitamin E

This is a vital antioxidant and is essential for healthy skin, eyes and a robust immune system. It reduces the risk of developing dementia. Almonds, sunflower seeds and tomatoes are excellent sources of this vitamin.

6. Vitamin K

The blood cannot clot without the presence of this vitamin. It helps in wound healing and for healthy bones. A balanced diet ensures that a sufficient quantity of vitamin K is maintained. Leafy greens, broccoli and kale are good sources of vitamin K.

7. Folic Acid

It helps in the formation of red blood cells and reduces the risk of neural defects in the foetus, therefore is vital for pregnant women. Deficiency can lead to anaemia. Leafy greens, asparagus, beans, citrus, lentils, nuts and beetroot are good sources of folic acid.

Commonly searched products containing multivitamins:

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Minerals

1. Iron

Iron is needed to maintain healthy blood and to build muscles naturally. Deficiency causes anaemia. Very high doses can be lethal. Leafy greens, soybeans, cereal, beans, lentils and pumpkin have a high amount of iron content.

2. Calcium

Calcium is needed for proper muscle contraction, sharp teeth and bones and flexibility. Too much can prohibit iron absorption in the body. Good sources of calcium are dairy products and tofu.

3. Zinc

Zinc is needed for proper growth, good immunity, and fertility. Beans, cashews and dark chocolate are rich in zinc.

4. Phosphorus

Phosphorus helps in maintaining healthy bones and energy production.

5. Magnesium

Magnesium is also needed for energy production and strong bones. It helps release parathyroid hormones.

Also Read: What is Biotin? Your Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Its Role and Benefits

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

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