Folic Acid and Pregnancy |
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IS FOLIC ACID IS IMPORTANT IN PREGNANCY?
Folic acid is a member of the vitamin B group. Foods in which it is mainly found are dark green leafy vegetables, grains and whole grain bread, and organ meats. Based on scientific studies, there is strong reason to believe that the preventive administration of folic acid supplements before and during pregnancy can significantly reduce the risk of spinal abnormalities in the fetus (spina bifida). Recent studies suggest a decrease in cardiac and renal abnormalities. Neural tube abnormalities can occur in approximately one out of every 700 pregnancies in Quebec. This part of the fetal anatomy and the heart develop very early, at the fifth or sixth week of pregnancy. Every woman who plans to become pregnant should make sure that she is taking a folic acid supplement for two months prior to pregnancy and for the first twelve weeks of her pregnancy. The recommended dose is approximately 0.4 mg. A number of over-the-counter vitamin supplements contain this level of folic acid. You should check this with your pharmacist.
Some women will be more at risk of having a fetus with these types of abnormality and, in such cases; the suggested dose would be substantially higher: around 4 mg per day. Women at high risk are those who already have a child with such an abnormality, diabetic women, and those who use anticonvulsant drugs. If you have any doubt on this subject, check with your doctor.
Prevention is a lot of little things - and a great deal of common sense!
