As special cases may vary from the general information presented here, SBA advises readers to consult a qualified medical or other professional on an individual basis. 4.6 Fertility, pregnancy and lactation There are no known hazards to the use of folic acid, indeed folic acid supplements are often necessary in pregnancy. Folic acid may interfere with the toxic and therapeutic effects of methotrexate. This information does not constitute medical advice for any individual. Sulfasalazine - can reduce the absorption of folic acid. Other synthetic forms include folinic acid (Figure 1) and levomefolic. Taking folic acid before and during the first three months of pregnancy does not guarantee the baby will not have SB, but it can significantly reduce the risk. Folic acid is the major synthetic form found in fortified foods and vitamin supplements. This amount of folic acid is available only through prescription, so high-risk women must carefully plan their pregnancies. Women who have Spina Bifida, a child with SB, or had a pregnancy affected by SB should take 4000 mcg (4.0 mg) of folic acid for one to three months before pregnancy. Women who could become pregnant should take 400 mcg (0.4 mg) of folic acid through a vitamin. The best way to get the right amount is to eat a healthy diet, and take a vitamin with folic acid every day. Previous studies of these nutrients as a treatment for male infertility have produced conflicting results. Zinc is an essential mineral for sperm formation, and folate, the natural form of folic acid, depends on zinc to help form DNA in the sperm. 11-13 Several reports have shown that serum folate concentrations have. The authors note that most so-called fertility supplements contain zinc and folic acid. A diet high in folate is good for you, but most people do not get enough through food alone. In the 1990s mandatory increased fortification of enriched cereal-grain products along with the requirement of folate-related health and nutrient content claims on food and dietary supplement products significantly increased the folic acid content of the US food supply.
Some cereal and bread have folic acid added to them. Where do I get folic acid?įolate occurs naturally in foods like green vegetables, fruits, and juices. Research has shown that if women who could become pregnant were to take a multivitamin with folic acid, the risk of neural tube defects like Spina Bifida could be reduced by up to 70%. All women of childbearing age should consume 400 micrograms of folic acid a. Taking folic acid before and during the st three months of pregnancy does not guarantee the baby will not have SB, but it can significantly reduce the risk. Folic acid is used to make the extra blood your body needs during pregnancy.
What is folic acid?įolic acid is a B vitamin that helps a woman’s body produce healthy red blood cells. Although the exact causes of Spina Bida are not yet known, maintaining healthy levels of folate (called folic acid when taken via a supplement) have been identified as a key factor in prevention.