Why folic acid is important during pregnancy
Maybe the most commonly discussed supplement when it comes to fertility, but why is folic acid so important during pregnancy? When should it be taken? Why should it be taken? And, is it really as essential as it’s made out to be?
Why folic acid matters during pregnancy.
Folic acid (the synthetic form of folate) is also known as Vitamin B9. It is essential during preconception and the first 3-months of pregnancy due to it’s proven prevention of neural tube defects (NTDs) in infants. NTDs are serious congenital malformations of the brain and spinal chord which occur in very early development of a foetus. Babies born with NTDs can face lifelong disability, and in some cases they can be life threatening.
Research carried out in the UK and worldwide shows that taking folic acid before and in the early stages of pregnancy can greatly lower the risk of these conditions. Due to the strong evidence, the NHS recommends taking folic acid supplements as soon as you are planning to get pregnant. This is to ensure that you have sufficient storage of folic acid as soon as you become pregnant as NTDs can happen in the very early stages of pregnancy.
When and how much to take.
The NHS recommends taking a 400-microgram folic acid supplement daily, as soon as you start trying for a baby. This supplementation should be continued through the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Ideally, it is best to start taking the supplement at least three months before becoming pregnant, this will be discussed early on if you are undergoing fertility treatment. This helps to ensure that your body has enough folate stored for when the baby’s brain and spine are forming.
If you are unexpectedly pregnant and have not been supplementing with folic acid, do not panic. As soon as you are aware that you are pregnant, start taking the 400 microgram supplement and discuss with your GP.
Some people need higher dose supplements of folic acid, which will be disclosed to you via your fertility nurses or GP. Reasons for higher doses are usually for the following reasons:
- Have had a pregnancy affected by NTDs before
- Take certain epilepsy medications
- Diabetes
- Have a condition that affects your bodies ability to absorb nutrients (ex. coeliac disease).
Higher doses will only be issued via prescriptions. If you think you may require a higher does it is important to speak to your fertility nurse of GP about this.
Diet and Fortification.
As a Nutritionist, we often have a food first approach. Whilst this still stands, there are some occasions where supplementation is essential and required. Folic acid can be found naturally in foods such as leafy green vegetables, beans, and fortified cereals. However, a healthy diet alone does not provide the level required during early pregnancy. For this reason, supplements are necessary and should be taken alongside a healthy diet.
During recent years, the UK government has been working to add folic acid to flour, used in bread, to try to prevent birth defects further. This strategy has been a success in countries such as Australia for many years and has proven reductions in NTDs, especially due to the number of unplanned pregnancies.
Make it a part of your routine.
Taking folic acid supplements is a low cost way to help protect your baby’s health. They can be found in supermarkets across the UK for a small cost (around £2.50). Health stores also provide supplements however, be aware that these can come at an elevated price tag.
To make sure that you take your supplements regularly, we recommend putting them somewhere that you can visibly see each and every day. Whether that is next to your toothbrush, in your cereal cupboard, or next to your cup of tea mug. Where possible keep them in a cool place, not next to a cooker for example. If you have a cup of tea in the morning, try keeping your supplements in close view.
Take away message.
Folic acid is one of the most important vitamins to take when you are trying for a baby, and in early pregnancy. There is strong evidence to support the prevention of neural tube defects when folic acid is taken before conception and in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Supplement are low cost and found in most supermarkets to ensure they are cost effective for all.
nutritionbyhannah
Fertility Nutrition by Hannah. We share fertility focused recipes as well as provide meal plans catered to veggie, vegan, standard and pescatarian.
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