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One of the most important nutrients a woman’s body needs, especially during pregnancy, is folic acid. It supports the healthy development of the baby. Folic acid is a type of B vitamin that helps the body produce and maintain new cells, particularly red blood cells, which are essential for both mother and baby. One of the key reasons folic acid is needed during pregnancy is to help prevent neural tube defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly, which affect the brain and spine.

These defects can occur early in pregnancy, often before many women even realize they are pregnant. This is why doctors recommend that women who are planning to conceive, or are in the early stages of pregnancy, start taking folic acid supplements. In addition to preventing birth defects, folic acid supports the overall growth of the baby by aiding in the development of the heart and circulatory system, and reducing the risk of pregnancy complications like preeclampsia. It also helps prevent maternal anemia by aiding in proper blood formation.

At the early stages of pregnancy, these defects often occur before a woman realizes she is pregnant, which is why doctors recommend that women planning to conceive start taking folic acid supplements early. Folic acid not only helps prevent birth defects but also supports the baby’s growth, particularly the development of the heart and circulatory system, while reducing the risk of complications such as preeclampsia. In a conversation with Jagran English, Dt. Inshara Mahedvi, Consultant Dietician at Motherhood Hospital, Lullanagar, Pune, discussed the vital role of folic acid in pregnancy.

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Are You Aware Of Folic Acid?

Folic acid plays a pivotal role during pregnancy. Yes, that’s right! Taking folic acid, as recommended by experts, helps prevent birth defects and supports the growth and development of the baby.

According to Dt. Mahedvi, pregnant women are often advised to pay close attention to their diet for a healthy pregnancy. Many supplements are crucial during pregnancy, and folic acid is one of them. Folic acid, also known as folate, is a man-made B vitamin that can be acquired from dark leafy green vegetables, legumes, oranges, bananas, berries, and melons. Pregnant women are also recommended to take folic acid supplements for the baby’s growth and development. This article will help you understand the benefits of folic acid during pregnancy.

Why Do Women Need To Take Folic Acid During Pregnancy?

      1. Neural Tube defects (NTDs): Folic acid is known to prevent neural tube defects (NTDs) in babies, which are serious birth defects that affect the brain and spine, such as anencephaly and spina bifida. It is essential to follow the guidelines given by an expert while taking folic acid supplements.
      2. Healthy Development: Folic acid ensures that the baby develops healthy cells, DNA, and RNA for proper growth.
      3. Reduced Risk Of Preeclampsia: Folic acid may help prevent preeclampsia and gestational hypertension, promoting health throughout pregnancy.
      4. Lower Risk Of Other Birth Defects: Folic acid helps prevent other birth defects such as cleft lip or palate.
      5. Prevents Miscarriage: Research shows that folic acid can help reduce the risk of miscarriage.

Aids in the formation of red blood cells: Folic acid promotes the growth of red blood cells, which are essential for maintaining healthy blood. When a woman becomes pregnant, it is crucial for her to start taking folic acid without fail, as it is necessary for the baby’s brain, spine, and nerve development. Adequate folic acid intake during pregnancy is vital, she added.

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Many pregnant women take folic acid supplements only after becoming pregnant, said Dt. Mahedvi. However, folic acid should be started even before conception under the guidance of an expert. Women should make informed decisions and not miss out on folic acid during pregnancy. After all, your baby’s health should be your priority!