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Folic Acid Facts

folic acid facts

One of the main folic acid facts, is that it's highly important for women who are pregnant, or intending to become pregnant. Unless you are already clued up on pregnancy, you may be up there with the rest of the 'wanna be' Mums, screaming "What is folic acid?!"

Folic acid is also known as vitamin B9, folacin and folate. The benefits of folic acid while you're pregnant are tremendous.

Folic acid facts - When should you take it?

Folic acid should really be taken as a daily supplement right from when you start trying to get pregnant. It should be taken up to the 12th week of pregnancy. If you didn't plan your pregnancy, you should start to take folic acid as soon as you realise that you are pregnant. The department of health recommends that 0.4mg is sufficient as a daily supplement. Women that have a higher risk of giving birth to a baby with NTD may be recommended to take a higher dosage.

Although folic acid can be found in food such as leafy green veggies, some types of cereals and breads, it's very unlikely that you would get enough from just food alone. Your chemist or doctor will advise you on folic acid supplements and how much to take.

Main benefits of folic acid

Top of the folic acid facts when your pregnant, is that this one little vitamin plays a huge roll in the prevention of NTD - neural tube defects. NTD's can result in a number of malformations in the spine, skull and brain, leading to illnesses such as spina bifida.

Folic acid has also been shown to reduce the risk of other illnesses such as congenital heart defects and other limb defects such as cleft lip or palate. Some studies also show that folic acid helps to prevent premature labor.

Folic acid - side effects

The good thing about folic acid is that it's a naturally occurring vitamin which everybody needs. There are no side effects to worry about for you or your baby while you taking these supplements. Folic acid can be purchased from your local pharmacy and even prescribed by your GP.

Find out which foods contain folic acid here.

Return from Folic acid facts to the pregnancy page or go to the New baby and beyond homepage.