What happens if you don't take folic acid during pregnancy

Overview

Folic acid is a form of folate, which is a B vitamin. It is essential for cell growth and development.

The terms "folate" and "folic acid" are often used interchangeably.

Best time to take folic acid during pregnancy

However, folate is a general term used to describe many different forms of vitamin B9. This includes folates occurring naturally in foods, like leafy greens, and forms that are man-made, like folic acid.

Folic acid is more stable than folates found naturally in food.

It is used in supplements and fortified foods, such as bread, pasta, some breakfast cereals, and some corn masa flour.

A woman needs adequate folate in early pregnancy to properly form the neural tube, which becomes a baby's brain and spine.

Folic acid 5 mg vs 400 mcg

Folic acid 5 mg vs 400 mcg

How long does folic acid take to work

When should i stop taking folic acid during pregnancy

When to take folic acid morning or night

Foods to avoid when taking folic acid

Folic acid plays a particularly important role early in pregnancy. Many studies have shown that taking folic acid before and during pregnancy can help lower the chance of neural tube defects.1 Getting 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid daily can help prevent neural tube defects (NTDs).

Prevention

General recommendation

CDC recommends that all people capable o

when should u stop taking folic acid

when can you stop taking folic acid while pregnant