In pregnancy, a deficiency of folic acid can increase risk for neural tube (spinal cord) defects.
It’s also important in red blood synthesis and thus the prevention of anemia.
Folic acid is also important to many other normal bodily functions.
How much do I need?
An average diet gives approximately 250 micrograms per day; however these requirements are increased to around 400 micrograms per day in pregnancy.
If you’ve ever had a baby with a neural tube defect (NTD), you need 10x the usual recommended dose. That is 4000 micrograms (or 4 milligrams) per day.
If you are planning on conceiving, you should start taking a prenatal vitamin or folic acid 1-2 months before conceiving. This is especially important if you’ve had a child with an NTD in the past.
How do I get what I need?
If you’re pregnant, any prenatal vitamin (over the counter or prescription) will have more than enough folic acid.
Leafy vegetables: spinach, broccoli, asparagus, turnip greens, etc.