News India Live, Digital Desk: Taking care of health is most important in the journey of motherhood. Recently doctors and health experts have issued an important advice: Women who are planning conception should do so at least one to three months in advance. Folic Acid Should start consuming. This simple step can prove to be a game-changer in protecting the baby from serious congenital disorders, especially ‘Neural Tube Defects’.
What is folic acid and why is it important?
Folic acid is a synthetic form of vitamin B9. It is essential for the formation of new cells and synthesis of DNA in the body. In the early weeks of pregnancy, when many women are not even aware of their pregnancy, the fetus’s brain and spinal cord are developing.
1. Prevention of Neural Tube Defects (NTDs)
According to doctors, folic acid can reduce the risk of serious defects to the baby’s spine (Spina Bifida) and brain (Anencephaly) by 70%. These disorders develop within the first 28 days of pregnancy.
2. Protection from anemia
The demand for blood in a woman’s body increases during pregnancy. Folic acid helps in the formation of red blood cells, which reduces the risk of anemia (blood deficiency) in the mother.
3. Other Benefits
Research shows that taking folic acid pre-conception (before conception) can also prevent problems like pre-term birth and low birth weight of the child.
Doctors’ advice: What is the right amount?
Experts say getting enough folic acid from diet is often challenging, so supplementation is important:
Usual dosage: Daily for women planning pregnancy 400 micrograms (mcg) Folic acid is recommended.
Duration: At least from conception 1 month ago Should be started and continued till the first trimester (first 3 months) of pregnancy.
Special status: If there is a history of a family history of a congenital disorder, the doctor may recommend a higher dose (e.g. 5mg).
Natural Sources of Folic Acid
In addition to supplements, you can include these things in your diet:
Green leafy vegetables: Spinach, broccoli and fenugreek.
Pulses and Legumes: Rajma, gram and lentils.
Citrus fruits: Orange and lemon.
Fortified Foods: Cereals or rice in which folic acid has been added separately.
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