The Essential Pre-Pregnancy Step: Why Folic Acid Should Be Your First Priority

This article is authored byDr Ameet Soni, Associate Vice President, HoD - Medical Affairs, CORONA Remedies Limited.

Folic Acid Prevents Birth Defects: Start Early

Science behind Folic Acid and Pregnancy

A vital vitamin, folic acid is essential for cell division and DNA synthesis, two processes that are vital in the early phases of pregnancy. Because the neural tube begins to form in the first few weeks after conception, these processes are particularly significant. The baby's brain and spinal cord will eventually emerge from the neural tube. But this occurs very early in pregnancy, frequently before many women are even aware that they are carrying a child.

Folic acid supplementation prior to pregnancy is crucial because the neural tube is developing during the first 28 days after conception. Folic acid lowers the risk of birth defects involving the brain and spinal cord by ensuring that the neural tube forms properly. Without enough folic acid, there is a higher risk of conditions such as spina bifida, a defect of the spine, and anencephaly, where the brain doesn't develop fully. Taking folic acid before and during early pregnancy can significantly lower these risks.

Why Folic Acid Matters Before Pregnancy

1. Supports Cell Growth and Division- As the body prepares for conception, folic acid helps promote the rapid cell division required for the development of a healthy pregnancy. This includes the growth of the placenta, which is essential for providing the baby with nutrients throughout gestation.
2. Reduces Risk of Other Birth Defects- Beyond NTDs, folic acid may also reduce the risk of other birth defects, including heart defects. Folic acid can also have a broader protective role in foetal development, influencing not just neural growth but also overall cellular health.

How Much Folic Acid Do You Need?

Experts recommend that all women planning to conceive take at least 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid daily, starting at least one month before pregnancy and continuing throughout the first trimester. Folic acid is a type of B vitamin that plays a critical role in the development of the baby’s brain and spine. It helps in the formation of the neural tube, which eventually becomes the brain and spinal cord. Women who are at a higher risk of having a baby with neural tube defect (NTD), doctors may suggest taking higher doses of folic acid. Neural tube defects are serious birth defects that affect the brain, spine, or spinal cord, such as spina bifida or anencephaly. Women who are at a higher risk include those who have a family history of NTDs, have had a previous pregnancy affected by an NTD. In such cases, doctors may recommend doses of up to 4,000 mcg (4 mg) of folic acid daily to help reduce the risk of these defects.

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Folic Acid in Food

Consuming foods high in folate is beneficial as well as taking folic acid supplements. Dark leafy greens such as spinach and kale, legumes like lentils and chickpeas, fortified cereals and breads, zesty citruses such as oranges and lemons, avocados, and eggs all pack plenty of the vitamin. Adding these everyday items to your meals helps you get enough folate the natural way and gives your body an extra health boost. Pairing these foods with a daily supplement also seals the deal and keeps your prenatal routine on track.

Reaching for folic acid well before pregnancy is more than good advice; it is a simple habit that can protect both mother and baby. When the level of folic acid in the mother’s body is right, the odds of a smoother pregnancy and a healthier child climb higher. Making sure the diet hits the mark with folate, whether through food alone or through an easy tablet, is a small step that pays off in big ways.

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