What is folic acid for pregnant women?
Folic acid or vitamin B9 is the sourcefolates taking an active part in the process of hematopoiesis. The lack 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 for pregnant women?
It is desirable to start taking vitamin B9 even beforeconception. At the moment when the future mother finds out that she is in position, the baby is already beginning the process of laying down vital organs. To ensure a solid foundation for the child's physical and mental health, folate should already be present in the mother's body in sufficient quantities. In most cases, vitamin B9 should be consumed throughout the pregnancy, but the decision to take it is taken exclusively by the treating doctor. The recommended daily dose of folate is 1000 mcg - this one capsule. If, however, the results of the examination of a pregnant woman show any defects in the development of the fetus, the treating doctor may increase the daily dose. In the case of vitamin B9 deficiency in the body of a future mother, she is prescribed a dose of 3 to 5 tablets per day. Before taking folic acid while the child is waiting, it is important to take all the tests and consult a doctor. Despite the benefits of 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 medicine, folic acid should be taken with caution.
