Folic acid is the synthetic version of vitamin B-9, which in its natural form is called folate. This vitamin is an important part of the prenatal diet, as it can influence the development of children in the womb. A deficiency of folic acid in a woman's diet during pregnancy can result in a birth defect known as spina bifida.
Neural Tube Defects
Birth defects involving the central nervous system are known as neural tube defects. Your central nervous system consists of your brain and spinal cord. The two most common neural tube defects are spina bifida and anencephaly. Spina bifida is characterized by a failure of the portion of the neural tube that forms the nerves and bones of the spine to form properly. The tube fails to close completely, and as a result the affected individual may experience difficulty with mobility, and even the complete inability to walk. Bowel and bladder control may be compromised in individuals with spina bifida, due to increased pressure on the brain. Severe spina bifida may result in death.
Folic Acid
Folate, the natural form of folic acid is found in many common foods, such as spinach, oranges, bananas and peanuts. Folic acid is the form of B-9 found in vitamin supplements. It is also frequently added to foods such as bread, rice and breakfast cereals. Folic acid aids in the formation of red blood cells and DNA, and is essential to human health.
Importance of Folic Acid in Pregnancy
Folic acid is especially important during periods of rapid growth, as it affects the production and maintenance of new cells. This aspect of folic acid makes it crucial for maintaining a healthy pregnancy. Folic acid deficiency during pregnancy can result in neural tube defects such as spina bifida. Women are advised to begin taking folic acid supplements even before getting pregnant, as the early stages of pregnancy are a crucial time in the development of the neural tube.
Dosages
If you are taking prenatal vitamins, you will notice that folic acid is one of the nutrients featured in such multivitamin supplements. The Linus Pauling Institute states that 400 micrograms is the recommended dietary allowance for folate in most non-pregnant adults. Women who are pregnant are advised to obtain 600 micrograms daily, and lactating mothers should consume 500 micrograms daily
