Folic acid is found naturally in many foods, including leafy green vegetables, fruits, beans, and nuts. However, it can be difficult to get enough folic acid through diet alone, especially for women who are pregnant or trying to conceive. This article answers the question “Why every woman should take folic acid”
Folic acid is a type of B vitamin that is essential for many bodily functions. It is important for the growth and development of new cells and the formation of DNA and RNA. This vitamin is especially important for women, as it plays a crucial role in preventing birth defects and maintaining overall health.
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Here are some reasons why every woman should take folic acid:
1 . Preventing birth defects: Folic acid is known to help prevent neural tube defects (NTDs), which are serious birth defects that affect the brain and spinal cord. These defects can occur in the early weeks of pregnancy before a woman knows she is pregnant. Taking folic acid before and during pregnancy can significantly reduce the risk of NTDs. The recommended folic acid dose for pregnant women or trying to conceive is 400 micrograms (mcg) per day.
2. Supporting healthy fetal development: Folic acid is important for many aspects of fetal development, including forming the neural tube, the brain, and the spinal cord. It also helps prevent other birth defects such as cleft lip and palate. In addition, folic acid is needed for the proper development of the placenta, which is essential for the growth and nourishment of the fetus.
3. Reducing the risk of miscarriage: Folic acid has been shown to reduce the risk of miscarriage in some studies. One study found that women who took folic acid before and during pregnancy had a lower risk of miscarriage than those who did not take folic acid.
4. Supporting overall health: Folic acid is not just important for pregnant women. It also supports overall health by helping the body produce and maintain new cells. Folic acid is important for the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body. It also helps support the immune system and can reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, such as colon cancer.
5 . Managing chronic conditions: Folic acid may also help manage certain chronic conditions, such as depression and inflammatory bowel disease. In some cases, folic acid supplements have been shown to improve symptoms and reduce the need for medication.
Groups of Women at a Higher Risk of Folic Acid Deficiency.
While folic acid is important for all women, there are some groups of women who may be at higher risk of folic acid deficiency or who may need higher doses of folic acid. These include:
- Women who are pregnant or trying to conceive
- Women who have had a previous pregnancy affected by a neural tube defect
- Women who have a family history of neural tube defects
- Women who are obese
- Women who have malabsorption syndromes, such as celiac disease or Crohn’s disease
- Women who have had gastrointestinal surgery
- Women who are taking certain medications, such as anticonvulsants or methotrexate
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It is essential to talk to your healthcare provider about your folic acid needs and any potential risks or interactions with other medications or supplements you may be taking.
In conclusion, this vitamin is an essential nutrient for women of all ages but most especially for women who are pregnant or trying to conceive as it can help prevent birth defects and support healthy fetal development.
So next time you go to the hospital and you are given folic acid do well to take it as directed by your doctor. Now that you have understood why every woman should take folic acid, do well to share so others will also benefit.