Folic Acid and vitamin B12 requirements are increased during pregnancy because deficiencies in these vitamins can result in severe and permanent brain and nerve damage of the developing fetus. These vitamins are involved in the proper formation of the spinal cord and nervous system, so adequate intake during pregnancy is vital to prevent spina bifida and other neurological complications. Consuming a diet rich in green leafy vegetables, fruits, fortified grains and cereals, and animal products like meat, poultry, fish and dairy can prevent a deficiency in both folic acid and vitamin B12. A supplement or prenatal vitamin can also ensure adequate intake of these vitamins.
Roles of Folic Acid in the Body and Development
Folate, more commonly known as folic acid in the American diet, is a water-soluble B vitamin. In normal, healthy people, folate is involved in the production of red blood cells, DNA and RNA production, and the metabolism and regulation of homocysteine levels. In pregnant women, folate requirements increase because it protects against the child developing neural tube defects, which can result in spina bifida and brain malformations. Folate is involved in the closing of the spinal cord during the first month of development of a fetus. If the cord is not properly closed, normally due to the mother's inadequate folate intake, it results in damage to the nerves and/or spinal cord, paralyzing the lower extremities, bowel and bladder complications, learning disabilities and hydrocephalus, which is excessive fluid on the brain. By simply consuming proper amounts of folate during pregnancy, a mother can avoid these serious complications.
Sources and Requirements of Folic Acid
Folic acid can be found both naturally and synthetically. In the natural form, it is occurs in fruits, leafy green vegetables, beans and peas. The synthetic form of folate is found in supplements and added to fortified cereals, pastas, breads, rice and other grain products. The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for folate for men and women over the age of 14 years is 400 micrograms (mcg) per day. The RDA for folate for pregnant women is 600 mcg per day and 500 mcg per day for lactating women. A folic acid supplement or prenatal vitamin is recommended for pregnant women and ensures mothers will meet the RDA. Eating a diet rich in leafy green vegetables, fruits, and fortified cereals and grains also protects against a folate deficiency.
Roles of Vitamin B12 in the Body and Development
Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble B vitamin, and its roles in the body are similar to those of folate: DNA synthesis, red blood cell production, and brain and nerve functions. Vitamin B12 deficiency can result in pernicious anemia, affecting the stomach lining and function. Vitamin B12 requirements are increased in pregnant women because a deficiency can lead to severe brain and spinal cord damage in the infant. Pregnant women who are vegetarians are at a higher risk for a B12 deficiency, so a supplement is imperative during pregnancy.
Sources and Requirements of Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 occurs naturally in foods and in a supplement form. It is found naturally in animal products, such as meat, poultry, fish and dairy products. Cereals are also fortified with vitamin B12. The RDA for vitamin B12 for normal, healthy men and women over the age of 14 years is 2.4 mcg per day. The RDA for pregnant women is 2.6 mcg per day and 2.8 mcg per day for lactating women. Consuming a diet containing animal products, as well as taking a supplement, will protect against a B12 deficiency.
