Folic acid and the desire to have children
What influence does folic acid have on pregnancy and baby development?
Folic acid is an absolute pregnancy superhero! Taking a dietary supplement with the recommended amount of 400 micrograms of folic acid before and during pregnancy has various benefits. Firstly, folic acid can increase fertility and thus increase the likelihood of pregnancy. During pregnancy, folic acid then ensures that malformations of the baby’s brain and spinal cord are prevented.
But what exactly is folic acid?
Folic acid is an artificially produced form of a B vitamin called folate. Folic acid plays an important role in the formation of red blood cells and supports the baby’s nervous system in the development of the brain and spinal cord. The best food sources of folic acid are fortified cereals. Folic acid is naturally found in dark green vegetables and citrus fruits.
When should I start taking folic acid?
Folic acid is particularly important for the development of the embryo in early pregnancy.
If you have already spoken to your doctor, he or she will probably have already advised you to take folic acid.
It is recommended that you start taking folic acid daily at least one month before pregnancy and then continue every day during pregnancy. However, you can start taking it earlier.
It is best to discuss which preparation is best for you with your gynecologist.
How much folic acid should I take?
Please discuss the exact dosage of the folic acid supplement with your doctor. If you are already taking dietary supplements, check them for their folic acid content to avoid the accumulation of multiple supplements.
Good sources of folic acid in the diet
There are certain foods that can help you to get more folic acid from your diet. These include green vegetables (such as spinach or broccoli), pulses, seeds and nuts, but also animal products such as eggs or beef liver. The following table provides a brief overview of foods that are high in folic acid:
Sources
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- Handlungsempfehlungen vom Netzwerk Gesund ins Leben für die Lebensweise von Schwangeren
- https://www.pharmazeutische-zeitung.de/index.php?id=39797
- Bundesinstitut für Risikobewertung: https://www.bfr.bund.de/de/fragen_und_antworten_zu_folat_und_folsaeure-8899.html
- National Women’s Health Information Center: „Folic acid.