Folic acid and pregnant mom

Importance Food Sources WHO Recommend

Folic acid, also known as folate or Vitamin B9, plays a crucial role in pregnancy for both the mother and the developing fetus.

Many healthcare providers recommend that women who are planning to become pregnant or who are already pregnant take a daily prenatal vitamin containing folic acid.

The recommended daily intake of folic acid for pregnant women is 600 micrograms (mcg) per day, and it’s often advised to start taking folic acid supplements before conception and continue throughout the first trimester. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized recommendations regarding folic acid supplementation during pregnancy.

Importance of folic acid during pregnancy

1. Neural tube development: Folic acid is essential for the proper development of the neural tube in the fetus, which eventually forms the brain and spinal cord. Sufficient intake of folic acid, especially in the early stages of pregnancy, can significantly reduce the risk of neural tube defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly.
2. Prevention of birth defects: In addition to neural tube defects, folic acid also helps prevent other birth defects, including cleft lip, cleft palate, and certain heart defects.
3. Maternal health: Folic acid is beneficial for the mother’s health as well. It helps in the formation of healthy red blood cells and aids in the production and repair of DNA. Sufficient folic acid intake can reduce the risk of anemia in pregnant women.
4. Prevention of preterm birth: Adequate folic acid intake during pregnancy has been associated with a reduced risk of preterm birth, which is when a baby is born before completing 37 weeks of gestation.
5. Reduction of miscarriage risk: Some studies suggest that adequate folic acid intake may help lower the risk of miscarriage, although more research is needed to confirm this.

Best Protein Powders During Pregnancy:

Best Indian food sources to get more folic acid:

1. Pomegranates: Pomegranates are delicious and rich in folate and antioxidants. Enjoy them fresh as a snack, sprinkle the seeds over salads, or blend them into juice.
2. Mangoes: Mangoes are not only delicious but also rich in folate. They can be enjoyed as a snack, added to fruit salads, or blended into smoothies.
3. Bananas: Bananas are a convenient and nutritious fruit that contains a moderate amount of folate. They make for a quick and easy snack and can also be added to yogurt, oatmeal, or smoothies.
4. Papayas: Papayas are a tropical fruit that is high in folate. They can be eaten fresh, added to fruit salads, or blended into smoothies.
5. Oranges: Oranges are rich in vitamin C and folate, making them an excellent choice for pregnant women. Enjoy them fresh as a snack, squeeze them into juice, or add slices to salads.
6. Guavas: Guavas are a tropical fruit packed with folate and vitamin C. Eat them fresh or add them to fruit salads and smoothies.
7. Indian Gooseberries (Amla): Indian gooseberries, also known as amla, are loaded with vitamin C and folate. They can be eaten fresh, pickled, or used to make juice.
8. Watermelons: Watermelons are hydrating fruits that are also a good source of folate. Enjoy them fresh as a snack or blend them into refreshing smoothies.

Pregnancy Special Nuts & Dry Fruit Mixture:

WHO Recommended

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), women should take folic acid supplements (400 μg of folic acid per day) from the moment they start trying to conceive until the 12th week of pregnancy.

References:

Periconceptional folic acid supplementation to prevent neural tube defects