What is folic acid for pregnant women?
Folic acid or vitamin B9 is a sourcefolates, which take an active part in the process of hematopoiesis. A deficiency of these substances threatens the development of anemia and increases the risk of various defects in the formation of the fetus.
Folic acid is needed by pregnant women for normal fetal development. Photo: Getty. So, why is folic acid pregnant, and in what vital processes is it involved:
- laying and growth of fetal neural tissues;
- formation of the vessels of the placenta;
- development of the child's brain;
- formation of the neural tube;
- the construction of all cells of the human body, including cells of the embryo.
In significant quantities, vitamin is contained in suchfood products like legumes, citrus fruits, leafy vegetables, liver and bee honey. But since part of the folate is destroyed during cooking, it is recommended to take B9 additionally during pregnancy.
How to take folic acid during pregnancy?
It is advisable to start taking vitamin B9 even beforeconception. At the moment when the expectant mother finds out that she is pregnant, the baby has already begun the process of laying down vital organs. To ensure a solid foundation for the physical and mental health of the child, folates must already be present in the mother's body in sufficient quantities. In most cases, vitamin B9 should be taken throughout the pregnancy, but the decision to take it is made exclusively by the attending physician. The recommended daily dose of folates is 1000 mcg - this is one capsule. If the results of the examination of the pregnant woman showed any defects in the development of the fetus, the attending physician can increase the daily dose. In case of vitamin B9 deficiency in the body of the expectant mother, she is prescribed 3 to 5 tablets per day. Before taking folic acid while expecting a child, it is important to pass all the tests and consult a doctor. Despite the benefits of the vitamin for the proper development of the fetus, its excess in the body of a pregnant woman can lead to a decrease in immunity in both the mother and the baby. Like any medication, folic acid should be taken with caution.
