Why should you take folic acid before preparing for pregnancy?
1. Why should we take folic acid?
Why should you take folic acid before preparing for pregnancy? This is a question often asked by families trying to conceive. Folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, is an important nutrient that is critical for embryonic development and health during pregnancy. There are several important reasons to take folic acid.
1. Promote embryonic neural tube development: Folic acid plays a vital role in the development of the embryonic neural tube. In the 3rd to 4th week of pregnancy, the neural tube begins to form, and folic acid can help prevent embryonic neural tube malformations, such as spina bifida.
2. Prevent congenital heart disease and cleft lip and palate: Folic acid not only helps the development of the embryonic neural tube, but also reduces the risk of congenital heart disease and cleft lip and palate. These malformations can develop early in embryonic development, and folic acid intake can reduce these risks.
3. Avoid anemia during pregnancy: Pregnant women are prone to anemia during pregnancy, and folic acid can help prevent anemia during pregnancy. Folic acid helps synthesize red blood cells and increases the number of red blood cells in the blood, thereby reducing the risk of anemia.
4. Reduce the risk of premature birth: Folic acid intake can also reduce the risk of premature birth. Premature birth refers to birth before 37 weeks of pregnancy, and folic acid supplementation can improve placental function and reduce the probability of premature birth.
2. How to take folic acid correctly?
After understanding why you should take folic acid , next let’s discuss how to consume folic acid correctly.
1. Obtain it from daily diet: Folic acid is found in many foods, such as green leafy vegetables (spinach, lettuce), beans (black beans , mung beans), nuts and yeast, etc. Before preparing for pregnancy, you can increase your intake of these foods to increase your folic acid intake.
2. Folic acid supplements: In addition to taking folic acid through food, you can also consider taking folic acid supplements before preparing for pregnancy. Folic acid supplements can ensure adequate folic acid intake, especially forSupplementation is especially important for those who do not get enough folic acid in their diet.
3. Consult a doctor: Before preparing for pregnancy, it is best to consult a doctor to understand your folic acid needs. Doctors can develop a reasonable folic acid supplement plan based on individual circumstances and provide relevant suggestions.
3. Other things to pay attention to before preparing for pregnancy
In addition to taking in enough folic acid, you should also pay attention before preparing for pregnancy The following matters:
1. Quit smoking and drinking: Smoking and drinking will have a negative impact on reproductive health and are not conducive to pregnancy preparation. Therefore, it is best to quit smoking and drinking and maintain good living habits before preparing for pregnancy.
2. Control weight: Being overweight or underweight will have an impact on pregnancy preparation. Proper weight control can improve fertility and reduce the risk of infertility.
3. Healthy diet: A balanced diet is very important in preparing for pregnancy. Ensuring adequate intake of nutrients such as protein, vitamins and minerals can help improve fertility.
4. Reduce stress: Stress can affect the normal function of the endocrine system and have a negative impact on fertility. You can reduce stress by taking appropriate rest and relaxation before trying to conceive.
Summary:
Why should you take folic acid before preparing for pregnancy? Because folic acid is essential for embryonic development and pregnancy health. To get the correct intake of folic acid, there are two ways to get it, through diet and supplements. In addition, you should also pay attention to matters such as quitting smoking and drinking, controlling your weight, eating healthily, and reducing stress. Preparation work before preparing for pregnancy is very important. Only by making these preparations can you increase the chance of successful pregnancy preparation. Remember, trying to get pregnant is a beautiful journey, enjoy every moment of it!
