During pregnancy, your body's nutritional needs increase, and maintaining a healthy diet plays a crucial role in the development of your baby. An imbalance in certain nutrients, whether through deficiency or excess, can have both short- and long-term effects on your baby's health. One of the most important nutrients during pregnancy is folic acid. Let's explore why.
What Is Folic Acid?
Folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, is a synthetic form of folate, a crucial nutrient found in many supplements and fortified foods. The body uses folic acid to produce and maintain new cells, making it essential for normal growth and development throughout life. It is especially important for pregnant women.
Why Is Folic Acid Important Before and During Pregnancy?
Folic acid is an essential nutrient that the body cannot produce on its own, meaning it must be obtained through diet or supplements. During pregnancy, consuming enough folic acid is crucial as it helps prevent neural tube defects (NTDs) in the fetus. NTDs are serious congenital defects affecting the brain, spine, and spinal cord, and they typically occur in the first month of pregnancy. The two most common NTDs are:
Spina bifida: Incomplete development of the spine and spinal cord.
Anencephaly: A condition where a large part of the brain and skull do not develop.
In addition to preventing NTDs, studies have shown that folic acid can reduce the risk of cleft lip (a split in the upper lip) and congenital heart disease. Congenital heart disease occurs when the heart or blood vessels do not develop normally before birth.
Which Foods Are Rich in Folic Acid?
Folate can be naturally found in a variety of foods, including:
Legumes (such as lentils, chickpeas, and beans)
Green leafy vegetables (like cabbage, spinach, and kale)
Nuts
Cereals
Yeasts
Ensuring that you incorporate these foods into your diet can help you meet your folic acid requirements and support a healthy pregnancy.
If you have any questions about folic acid intake during pregnancy or need help planning a pregnancy-friendly diet, don’t hesitate to reach out to Nicosia Fertility. We're here to support you on your journey to a healthy pregnancy!
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