OverviewFolate (vitamin B-9) is important in red blood cell formation and for healthy cell growth and function. The nutrient is crucial during early pregnancy to reduce the risk of birth defects of the brain and spine. Show Folate is found mainly in dark green leafy vegetables, beans, peas and nuts. Fruits rich in folate include oranges, lemons, bananas, melons and strawberries. The synthetic form of folate is folic acid. It's in an essential component of prenatal vitamins and is in many fortified foods such as cereals and pastas. A diet lacking foods rich in folate or folic acid can lead to a folate deficiency. Folate deficiency can also occur in people who have conditions, such as celiac disease, that prevent the small intestine from absorbing nutrients from foods (malabsorption syndromes). The recommended daily amount of folate for adults is 400 micrograms (mcg). Adult women who are planning pregnancy or could become pregnant should be advised to get 400 to 1,000 mcg of folic acid a day. EvidenceResearch on use of folate and oral folic acid supplements for specific conditions shows:
Our takeGenerally safeFor most people, it's best to get folate from food. A balanced diet usually provides all you need. However, folic acid supplements are recommended for women who are planning to become pregnant, could become pregnant, are pregnant or are breast-feeding. Folic acid supplements can also help people who have poor diets or conditions that interfere with the body's ability to absorb folate. Safety and side effectsWhen used orally at appropriate doses, folic acid is likely safe. Oral use of folic acid can cause:
People with allergies might have a reaction to folic acid supplements. Warning signs of an allergic reaction include:
Excess folic acid is excreted in urine. A high folate intake can mask vitamin B-12 deficiency until its neurological effects become irreversible. This can typically be remedied by taking a supplement containing 100 percent of the daily value of both folic acid and vitamin B-12. InteractionsPossible interactions include:
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. Which of the following is the most essential nutrient for a woman in her initial stages of pregnancy?Having a healthy baby means making sure you're healthy too. One of the most important ways to help prevent serious birth defects in your baby is to get enough folic acid every day — especially before conception and during early pregnancy.
What foods prevent birth defects?Preventing Birth Defects. Take a vitamin with 400 micrograms of folic acid every day. ... . Foods with folic acid include : okra, pinto beans, navy beans, mustard green s, kale, spinach, chicken liver, beef liver, orange juice, asparagus, broccoli, avocado, green peas, cauliflower, tomato juice, peanuts, and cantaloupe.. What are the nutritional needs for a pregnant woman?To maintain a healthy pregnancy, approximately 300 extra calories are needed each day. These calories should come from a balanced diet of protein, fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Sweets and fats should be kept to a minimum.
What vitamins prevent Down syndrome?For three decades, the US Public Health Service has recommended that all people capable of becoming pregnant consume 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid daily to prevent neural tube defects (NTDs). Folic acid is an important part of planning for a healthy pregnancy.
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