Folic Acid

Mothers-to-be need more folic acid than others. Babies who do not get enough of this important mineral are often born with birth defects. While folic acid is readily available in many foods, supplements can help make sure Mom gets the amount needed for a healthy baby. Folic acid can be found in prenatal vitamins as well as over the counter at the local pharmacy or grocery store.

Many doctors will advise a woman to watch her intake of folic acid long before she gets pregnant. Any couple thinking it is time to start trying for a baby should think about things like nutrition and vitamins. Having the body in good shape before trying always helps, and making sure levels of important things like folic acid are where they should be is essential. If your levels are good before you conceive, your baby was protected in this manner from day one. If you don’t worry about it until you are sure you have conceived, your body will have to play catch up, and damage may have already occurred.

Sometimes doctors will recommend prenatal vitamins for women to take to make sure she is getting the right amount for the health of the baby. Doctors can also determine if other vitamins and minerals are needed, or if the mother is getting the right amount from everyday foods. Sometimes taking prenatal vitamins is not a requirement and the doctor’s advice is best taken on this point. A healthy baby is the number one priority.

Folic acid in supplement form is not as good as getting in naturally, but its better than not getting it at all. Spend a few extra dollars to get a quality supplement if your doctor has recommended you take it above and beyond what you are already doing. Follow folic acid dosages carefully though, as taking too much can be just as bad as not taking enough. Your body will only use what it needs each day, and the rest will be removed from the body by the liver. If you are taking too much each day, the liver must work overtime, and in the long run, it will wear out much more quickly. Take it, just be sure you stay within the recommended amounts.

Be sure to check with your doctor about vitamins and mineral supplements before taking any.