Pregnancy preparation at advanced ages refers to women starting to prepare for pregnancy at the age of 35 and above. As women age, their fertility will gradually decline, so older women preparing for pregnancy need to pay special attention to their folic acid intake, because folic acid plays a vital role in the development of the embryo. In this article, I will focus on explaining the importance of folic acid in preparing for pregnancy in the elderly and how to choose the appropriate folic acid supplement.
First of all, let’s understand the importance of folic acid in preparing for pregnancy. Folic acid is a B vitamin that plays a vital role both before and during pregnancy. Folic acid can help prevent some birth defects, especially neural tube defects such as spina bifida. In addition, folic acid can promote the development of the fetal nervous system and help prevent the risk of premature birth and low birth weight babies. Therefore, it is very important for older women preparing for pregnancy to consume enough folic acid to ensure the healthy development of the embryo.
Next, let’s learn how to choose the right folic acid supplement. First, you can choose foods that contain folic acid, such as green leafy vegetables, beans, nuts, and grains. However, because folic acid intake may not meet the needs during pregnancy, many women choose to use folic acid supplements. There are several factors to consider when choosing a folic acid supplement.
The first is the dosage form. Folic acid supplements are usually available in tablets, capsules, and liquids. You can choose the appropriate dosage form according to your personal preferences and habits. In addition, the dosage form is also related to the absorption effect. Some dosage forms may be more easily absorbed by the body.
The second is dose. Generally speaking, it is recommended to consume 400-800 micrograms of folic acid every day during pregnancy preparation. However, for older women preparing for pregnancy, it is recommended to consume higher doses of folic acid, and you can consult a doctor or professional nutritionist for specific dosage guidance.
Also, pay attention to the quality and brand reputation of your folic acid supplement. Choose products from trusted manufacturers and certified products to ensure product quality and safety.
Finally, it’s important to note that folic acid supplements are not a substitute for a balanced diet. In addition to supplementing folic acid, you should also ensure a balanced intake of other nutrients, such as vitamin D, iron and calcium. A diverse diet can help provide the various nutrients your body needs, so you should try to follow the principle of a balanced diet while preparing for pregnancy.
To sum up, folic acid intake is very important for older women preparing for pregnancy. Choosing the right folic acid supplement can help promote healthy embryonic development by ensuring adequate folic acid intake. However, folic acid supplements are not a substitute for a balanced diet, so you should also pay attention to maintaining a diverse diet while preparing for pregnancy. If you have any questions, it is recommended to consult a doctor or professional nutritionist for personalized guidance and advice. I hope this article can provide some useful information and help to older women preparing for pregnancy.
