How long should you take folic acid during pregnancy?
Folic acid is a very important nutrient during pregnancy preparation. It plays a key role in embryonic development and pregnancy health. So, how long should you take folic acid while preparing for pregnancy? Let’s take a look at the answers to the following aspects:
1. Folic acid Importance
Folic acid is a B vitamin that plays a vital role in the neural tube development of the embryo. It helps prevent birth defects in newborns such as spina bifida and cerebrospinal canal insufficiency. In addition, folic acid helps promote the production of red blood cells and maintains a healthy immune system.
2. Folic acid intake before pregnancy preparation
Before preparing for pregnancy, it is recommended that women start supplementing with folic acid. According to expert recommendations, 400 micrograms of folic acid should be consumed every day. This can be achieved through food or supplements. Foods rich in folate include green leafy vegetables (such as spinach and kale), legumes (such as tofu and black beans), eggs, nuts and grains. Plus, supplements are a convenient way to go.
3. Folic acid supplementation time
While preparing for pregnancy, women should continue to supplement folic acid. In fact, folic acid intake should begin in the first trimester of pregnancy, as this is when the embryo\’s neural tube begins to form. But folic acid intake should not be limited to the first three months of pregnancy, but should continue throughout pregnancy. Therefore, you should continue to supplement folic acid during pregnancy preparation to ensure the healthy development of the embryo.
4. Folic acid dosage
What is the dosage of folic acid during pregnancy preparation? Experts recommend a daily intake of 400 to 800 micrograms of folic acid as the optimal dose for maintaining health. If you have already started taking folic acid supplements, you can continue taking them at this dose. If you haven\’t started yet, you should start as soon as possible and keep supplementing.
5. Sources of folic acid
In addition to supplements, folic acid can also be taken through food. In addition The foods mentioned above, some cereals and breads are also fortified with folic acid and can serve as sources of folic acid. However, it is important to note that some of the folic acid is lost during heating and cooking, so try to choose fresh foods and avoid overheating. .
In summary, folic acid should be continuously supplemented during pregnancy to ensure the healthy development of the embryo. The optimal dose of folic acid can be obtained through food. Or take supplements, but be aware of the loss of folic acid during heating and cooking. No matter which method you use, you should start supplementing with folic acid before preparing for pregnancy and continue to supplement it throughout the pregnancy. This way, you can provide your baby with folic acid. Lay a good foundation for your health.
