Folic acid is a needed nutrient in pregnant women. Ideally, the intake of this B vitamin should begin preconception or before pregnancy. The benefits are great. Folic acid supplementation reduces the risk for neural tube defects. A woman should take 600 micrograms of folic acid daily. This can be found in a prenatal vitamin. In addition, natural forms can be found in foods such as fortified breakfast cereals, dried beans, leafy green vegetables and orange juice.
Function
Folic acid helps the body make healthy new cells. Everyone needs folic acid. Pregnant women need it to ensure the healthy new cells are taking place in the fetus in addition to her health maintenance. Proper levels in the body may prevent spina bifida and brain defects. For instance, the neural tube is part of the brain and spinal cord. When the neural tube does not close properly, a baby is born with a very serious birth defect called a neural tube defect (NTD).
Prior Birth Defects
Some women have experienced a prior pregnancy affected by a birth defect such as spina bifida or neural tube defects. These women should be followed by their OB/GYN before becoming pregnant again. Folic acid amounts would be discussed at a preconception appointment. Studies have shown that taking larger doses of folic acid daily can reduce the risk of having another affected pregnancy. The OB/GYN provider may increase the dose from the recommended 600 micrograms.
Blood Pressure Benefits
In all women, folic acid may reduce the risk of developing high blood pressure also known as hypertension. The American Heart Association's guidelines recommend blood pressures to be <120/80. It is important to maintain an optimal blood pressure before pregnancy because pregnancy itself can elevate normal values.
Hypertension is a risk factor for cardiac disease, eye damage and stroke. It is important for the mom-to-be to have her blood pressure checked regularly before and during her pregnancy.
Benefits for Anemia
Without adequate supplies of folic acid, a pregnant woman may risk the effects of folic acid anemia. Anemia is a condition when there is not enough oxygen in the blood. Folic acid plays a part in making new red blood cells. These cells in turn carry needed oxygen for our body. With this type of anemia, a woman will feel fatigued and possibly short of breath on exertion. However, with daily intake of folic acid, this condition can be reversed.
Benefits for Depression
There is new research that suggests a link between low levels of folic acid and depression. Folic acid deficiencies contribute to higher levels of homocysteine in the blood. When homocysteine levels are elevated, a risk for depression is possible. Pregnant women have normal shifts of hormones that may affect her mood manifesting as anxiety and/or depression. These are natural occurrences that cannot be controlled. Intake of proper folic acid can be controlled in a supplement pill and diet.
