What is Folic acid?
Folic acid, also known as folate, is well recognized for its value in the prevention of certain birth defects. It may have another important health benefit. A large study showed that women who consumed more folic acid had a significantly reduced risk of developing high blood pressure (hypertension).
Where is Folic acid found?
Folic acid is one of the B vitamins found in foods such as leafy green vegetables, fruits, dried beans, and peas. A synthetic form of folic acid is used in dietary supplements and fortified foods. Folic acid acts by helping the body produce and maintain new cells. In particular, red blood cell formation is dependent upon adequate levels of this vitamin. Folic acid deficiency is a known cause of anaemia in both adults and children. Folate may also help cells resist changes in their DNA associated with the development of cancer.
Is Folic acid good for Pregnant women?
Folic acid is a pregnancy superhero! Taking a prenatal vitamin with the recommended 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid before and during pregnancy can help prevent birth defects of your baby’s brain and spinal cord. Take it every day and go ahead and have a bowl of fortified cereal, too.
Folic acid is a man-made form of a B vitamin called folate. Folate plays an important role in the production of red blood cells and helps your baby’s neural tube develop into her brain and spinal cord. The best food sources of folic acid are fortified cereals. Folate is found naturally in dark green vegetables and citrus fruits.
What does folic acid do in unborn babies?
Birth defects occur within the first 3-4 weeks of pregnancy. So it’s important to have folate in your system during those early stages when your baby’s brain and spinal cord are developing. A study showed that women who took folic acid for at least a year before getting pregnant cut their chances of delivering early by 50% or more.
References
- Webmd. Folic acid. Accessed on 23rd September 2018
- Medicine.net. Folic acid and its benefits in women. Accessed on 24th September 2018