Folic acid
Folic acid is known as folate or fulassin, a type of vitamin B, called vitamin B9, which is important in the production of red blood cells and in helping the growth of the spinal cord and brain of the fetus as a result of its role in the production of some basic chemical components in the nervous system, : Norepinephrine, serotonin, it also produces the genetic material in the cells of the body, and the composition of fluid surrounding the spinal cord, and it is necessary that the pregnant woman to eat folic acid to maintain the health and health of her child, and in this article we will inform you about its relationship with the pregnant.
Folic acid for pregnant women
Folic acid intake
Pregnant women are advised to take folic acid every day for a month before pregnancy, while continuing to eat it until the end of pregnancy, during the period of growth of the spinal cord and brain of the fetus. First trimester of pregnancy.
The dose required for the holder
The dose required for the pregnant woman is 400 micrograms daily during the first three months of pregnancy, 600 micrograms daily during the fourth month to the ninth month and 500 micrograms per day during the period of breastfeeding. The dose is increased according to some cases, including: a previous history of congenital defects in the family , Especially in the nervous system, if the mother is taking epileptic drugs, obesity, diabetes, or twins, at least 4 mg / day should be taken for each fetus.
Benefits of folic acid
- Protecting the fetus from some birth defects in the neural tube by 50%, such as: the spinal incision, a congenital malformation in which the growth of some of the paragraphs, leading to the emergence of spinal cord.
- Protecting the fetus from having a congenital defect known as cleft lip.
- Prevent the birth of a fetus with a weight below the normal range, and protect it from weak intrauterine growth.
- Anti-abortion.
- Prevention of premature birth, and some complications of pregnancy, such as: Alzheimer’s, heart disease, or stroke.
- Preventing anemia.
- Prevent pregnant women from getting nervous and depression.
- Meet the needs of pregnant women and their children during pregnancy.
- Preventing a disease known as a lack of brain, where the growth of large parts of the brain is not completed.
Sources of folic acid
Folic acid sources include: leafy vegetables; spinach, nuts, whole grains, legumes, unsweetened potatoes and fruits; such as: orange, broccoli, canned salmon, boiled eggs, or by eating as supplements.