This article explains the important link between folic acid and fertility. You may already know that you need to take folic acid in the early stages of pregnancy, but did you know that you should be taking it before you even become pregnant?
Folic acid is a B vitamin that plays a crucial role in the development of a healthy pregnancy. It is essential for the proper formation of the neural tube, which becomes the baby’s brain and spinal cord. This is why it is so important for women who are planning to become pregnant to make sure they are getting enough folic acid in their diet.
Folic acid can be found in a variety of foods, including leafy green vegetables, oranges, and fortified cereals. However, many women do not get enough folic acid through their diet alone. This is why it is recommended that all women who are planning to become pregnant take a daily folic acid supplement. The recommended daily amount is 400 micrograms, and it is best to start taking the supplement at least one month before becoming pregnant.
Eating a diet rich in vegetables and citrus fruit will significantly increase your folate levels; as this is great starting point for a healthy diet, making this switch is likely to benefit your overall health in lots of ways. But because of the importance of folic acid in the formation of your baby’s neural tube in the very early stages of pregnancy, it is really important to take folic acid supplements – whatever your overall diet – from when you first decide to start trying for a baby, to make sure you have sufficient levels for those crucial early days. It is recommended that you take 400 micrograms a day until you are 12 weeks pregnant.
In addition to folic acid, several other vitamins and minerals play important roles in the proper formation of the neural tube. These include:
- Vitamin B12: This vitamin is important for the formation of red blood cells and the proper functioning of the nervous system. A deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to neural tube defects, as well as other birth defects.
- Vitamin D: This vitamin is essential for the proper formation of bones and teeth, and it also plays a role in the development of the nervous system. Studies have shown that low levels of vitamin D during pregnancy can increase the risk of neural tube defects.
- Iron: Iron is an essential mineral that is needed for the formation of red blood cells. A deficiency in iron can lead to anemia, which can increase the risk of neural tube defects.
- Zinc: This mineral is essential for the growth and development of the nervous system. It also plays a role in the formation of the neural tube.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: These essential fatty acids are important for the development of the brain and the nervous system. They have been shown to play a role in the formation of the neural tube.
In addition to taking supplements, there are also other things that women can do to increase their chances of having a healthy pregnancy. This includes maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and managing any chronic health conditions such as diabetes or hypertension.
