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The Natural And Synthetic Forms Of Vitamin B9
Folate occurs naturally in leafy greens and fruits like oranges and melons. It helps in the formation of red blood cells, regulates the nervous system, and supports heart health.Folic acid is the synthetic version of vitamin B9 and the most stable and well-researched form. This is the form of vitamin B9 that is recommended during pregnancy. You can find folic acid in supplements and fortified cereals.
Why Do Doctors Recommend Folic Acid During Pregnancy?
The neural tube is formed in the first week of pregnancy, and from this neural tube the brain and spinal cord are formed. During these important developmental stages, folic acid is required. Folic acid deficiency can result in defects of the spinal cord and the brain and can also lead to severe problems such as neural tube defects (NTDs). Annually, it is estimated that nearly 300 foetuses in India are born with these NTDs. Some frequently seen NTDs are:- Spina bifida: In this NTD, the spinal column is left unprotected without covering of any bony tissue. It results in damage to the spine and to some nerves.
- Anencephaly: an NTD that causes underdevelopment of the brain and brain structures and invariably results in death a few days after delivery.
- Encephalocele: an NTD caused by the formation of a sac in the skull that contains brain tissue.
Benefits of Taking Folic Acid during Pregnancy
As discussed above, folic acid deficiency results in NTDs. A few babies may be permanently disabled, while a few with anencephaly die shortly after birth. Folic acid protects the foetus from NTDs by at least 50%. Therefore, doctors recommend taking folic acid in the diet and in supplement form. If you already had a baby with NTD, folic acid supplementation reduces the risk of NTD in another pregnancy by 70%. Folic acid intake reduces the chances of the following:- Low weight at birth
- Poor growth in the womb
- Cleft palate and cleft lip
- Prevents premature delivery
- Reduces any pregnancy-related complications
What Can You Do if You Are Pregnant?
Eat a healthy diet rich in leafy greens, nuts, legumes, and oranges. Along with a healthy diet, you should also take a folic acid supplement at least a month before pregnancy and continue until 2 to 3 months after becoming pregnant. This significantly reduces the chances of NTDs. The recommended dose of folic acid is 400 mcg, but consult with your doctor before starting on any dose.What Should You Do if You Already Had a Child with NTD?
If you already had a child with NTD, you must consult with your doctor about the supplements to be taken and the diet to be followed. The recommendation is to take 4000 mcg of folic acid daily, starting 1 month before becoming pregnant again until 3 months of pregnancy. However, this should only be taken after a doctor's consultation. If not planning a pregnancy, it is advised to take 400 mcg.Food Containing Folic Acid
- Beans
- Fruits like oranges and melons
- Nuts
- Grains
- Yolk of egg
- Salad greens
- Enriched cereals
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FAQs On Why Doctors Prescribe Folic Acid During Pregnancy
- Is 15 weeks of taking a folic acid supplement enough? Can I quit taking it now?
The risk of neural tube defects is high till 12 weeks of pregnancy. Ideally, it is recommended that you take a folic acid supplement until 12 weeks. Following which, your doctor will guide if you need to continue or stop taking folic acid. - I’m 7 weeks pregnant; can I start a folic acid supplement, or am I too late to start?
7 weeks is not too late to start taking folic acid. You can start as early as possible, after discussing it with your doctor and continue taking it until 12 weeks of pregnancy. It is best to consult with your doctor as well. - Can excessive folic acid cause harm to my baby?
Yes, excessive folic acid can harm the baby. Some observational studies suggest a relationship between high folate levels and increased risk of autism spectrum disorders in the child, gestational diabetes and higher infant birth weights.