Key Takeaways
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Pregnancy is a journey of love, care, and nourishment. Folic acid is one of the simplest yet a powerful way to show love for your baby and body.
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Folic acid for pregnancy is an absolutely non-negotiable nutrient for all moms-to-be.
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It can help prevent birth defects, support brain and heart health, and strengthen maternal immunity.
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The best time to take folic acid during pregnancy is actually before you conceive.
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A judicious mix of foods rich in folic acid and pregnancy supplements will make sure that you and your baby are protected.
In This Article
Folic Acid Benefits During Pregnancy
When To Take Folic Acid For a Healthy Pregnancy Journey
Best Natural and Supplement Sources of Folic Acid
Signs Of Folic Acid Deficiency In Pregnant Women
Introduction
Pregnancy is the only time in your life when you will get to fall in love with someone you've never even met.
As you prepare your mind and body to welcome a new life, nourishing your body with the right nutrients becomes one of the most powerful ways to love and protect your baby, even before they are born.
One such nutrient that is also known as the miracle vitamin for moms-to-be is folic acid for pregnancy. In this blog, we will talk about the foods rich in folic acid that can safeguard your overall well-being.
What Is Folic Acid
Before we get to the benefits of folic acid in pregnancy, let us start with the basics. Folic acid is also known as vitamin B9 or folate.
It is a water-soluble B vitamin that is found in dark leafy greens, legumes, and fortified foods. Folic acid is also known as the foundation nutrient of pregnancy because it supports DNA formation, cell growth, and promotes healthy tissue development.
Simply put, folic acid is not just a vitamin but the building block of life itself.
Folic Acid Benefits During Pregnancy
Now that we have a fair idea of what is folic acid, let us take a look at the benefits of folic acid in pregnancy (1);
Benefits of Folic Acid in Pregnancy |
How It Helps Mom and Baby |
Helps Reduce Chances of Miscarriage |
Folic acid can support healthy pregnancy by lowering the risk of genetic abnormalities. |
Helps Prevent Anemia |
Boosts red blood cell production and prevents fatigue |
Boosts Maternal Immunity |
Strengthens the immune system to keep the mother healthier during pregnancy. |
Lowers Chances of Neural Tube Defects |
Protects the baby’s brain and spinal cord development in the first trimester. (2) |
Promotes Brain Health |
Supports fetal’s cognitive and neurological development. |
Lowers Chances of Congenital Heart Disease In Baby |
Improves cardiovascular development in the fetus. |
Promotes Healthy Blood Circulation |
Enhances oxygen and nutrient delivery to the baby. |
When To Take Folic Acid For a Healthy Pregnancy Journey
The role of folic acid in pregnancy goes beyond just the folic acid and pregnancy benefits. As a mother, this is how you get to lay the foundation for lifelong health. But timing matters. So, if you're wondering when to take folic acid tablets, or how much folic acid per day during pregnancy, or is it okay to take folic acid when not pregnant, hear us out.
Ideally, folic acid tablets are treated as a pre pregnancy supplement. At least 1-3 months before conception. This is the best time to experience the benefits of folic acid for women in pregnancy.
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Supports early development
Neural tube forms in the first 28 days (3). More often than not, this is even before women get to know that they're pregnant.
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Reduces the risk of birth defects
If you are wondering about the best time to take folic acid during pregnancy, the sooner the better. Taking folic acid early can lower the chances of neural tube defects like spina bifida.
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Prepares the body
If you're wondering if folic acid is good for pregnancy, we say yes! Because it builds up nutrient reserves, so your body is ready for pregnancy.
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Strengthens maternal health
One of the most noteworthy benefits of folic acid for pregnancy is that it helps prevent anemia and fatigue even before conception begins.
Best Natural and Supplement Sources of Folic Acid
Folic acid and pregnancy are deeply connected. To experience all the benefits of folic acid in pregnancy, you have to eat right and choose your health supplements smartly. Let's take a look at both.
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Foods Rich In Folic Acid
Here are some of the best foods rich in folic acid for pregnancy;
Food |
Why It’s Good |
What It Does for Pregnancy |
Spinach & Kale |
Rich in folate and antioxidants |
Supports DNA formation & immunity |
Broccoli |
Packed with folic acid & fiber |
Aids digestion, boosts baby’s growth |
Lentils & Chickpeas |
High in natural folate |
Improves red blood cell production |
Fortified Cereals & Bread |
Enriched with folic acid |
Ensures consistent daily intake |
Oranges & Citrus Fruits |
Vitamin C + folic acid |
Enhances nutrient absorption |
Avocado |
Folate + healthy fats |
Supports brain & tissue development |
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Choosing The Right Supplements
To experience the benefits of folic acid in pregnancy, we recommend trying these pregnancy supplements from Dame Health.
Pregnancy Support Plus Advanced
This comprehensive prenatal supplement gives neural tube support, boosts hormonal balance, and prevents fatigue. Taking these folic acid tablets before pregnancy can support thyroid and immunity with iodine, iron, and B12.
Pregnancy Support Plus | Women's Complete Prenatal Multivitamins
These multivitamin tablets for women have been thoughtfully designed with methylated folate, iron, DHA, choline, and more. It supports fetal growth, boosts maternal energy, supports brain and spine development, and takes care of your gut health.
Signs Of Folic Acid Deficiency In Pregnant Women
Despite the efforts, some women may not be able to get enough folic acid. Here are some folic acid deficiency symptoms in pregnancy to look out for.
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Unusual fatigue.
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Weakness
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Irritability and mood swings.
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Mouth sores or swollen gums.
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Shortness of breath.
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Palpitations.
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Slow fetal growth.
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Improper development of the fetus.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is folate acid good for pregnancy?
Yes, there are many benefits of folic acid in pregnancy. It can help prevent neural tube defects, support brain health, and reduce complications during pregnancy.
2. How much folic acid per day during pregnancy?
If you are thinking about how much folic acid per day during pregnancy is permitted, the recommended dosage is 400mcg daily before conception and during early pregnancy (4).
3. Can you take too much folic acid?
High doses are not recommended without a doctor's advice. Please stick to the dosage that your healthcare provider advises.
4. Is it safe to take folic acid with other supplements?
Prenatal vitamins are designed in such a way that they combine folic acid with iron, DHA, Omega-3 and more.
5. When to take folic acid morning or night?
If you are wondering about when to take folic acid, morning or night, you can rest assured that it works either way. However, many women prefer taking it in the morning to avoid stomach upset.
6. When to stop taking folic acid in pregnancy?
You can continue taking folic acid supplements through the first trimester. But it is vital to consult your doctor before starting or stopping any pregnancy supplements.
Sources:
1. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3218540/
2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-folate/art-20364625