Therefore pregnant women should take folic acid | Folic acid

Therefore pregnant women should take folic acid

Too low a concentration of folic acid can lead to anemia in the expectant mother. This can then manifest itself in symptoms such as tiredness, exhaustion, paleness or palpitations. or Always tired – What can I do?

Furthermore, a folic acid deficiency can also have an effect on the child’s development in the womb. An undersupply of folic acid increases the risk of a so-called neural tube defect. This is a structure from which the brain and spinal cord develops.

Usually, the neural tube closes in the 4th week of pregnancy. A deficiency of folic acid can have a negative influence on the process – it can then lead to a defective closure or even a lack of closure. The result can be a so-called open back (spina bifida) or a malposition of the brain.

Taking folic acid during pregnancy can reduce the risk of the child suffering from a neural tube defect. In order to counteract a folic acid deficiency, many doctors recommend starting a sufficient folic acid intake before the beginning of pregnancy. This is done through a healthy and balanced diet and is often supplemented by taking folic acid tablets. As a rule, pregnant women are recommended to take a folic acid dose of about 550 micrograms per day. If there are any questions or uncertainties regarding the dosage, pregnant women or those who wish to have children should best consult their attending gynecologist.

These foods contain folic acid

Folic acid is found in a variety of foods. These include green vegetables such as avocado, asparagus and beans. Folic acid is also found in potatoes and cabbage.

Whole grain products, nuts and legumes are also important suppliers of folic acid. Furthermore, folic acid is found in dairy products and eggs. Folic acid is a vitamin that is sensitive to heat and light. With the food preparation therefore also a careful preparation should be respected around the Vitamin to receive. The same also applies to the correct light-protected storage of foods containing folic acid.