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Folic acid update

Trying to conceive? We've got everything you need to know about this important supplement

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Originally published on TodaysParent.com April 01, 2009

You’ve decided to have a baby! No doubt you have been inundated with a lot of advice, including about folic acid. But what is this wonder nutrient all about? Folic acid is a critical supplement that aids in your baby’s healthy development. Read on to help your unborn child get the best start in life.

What is folic acid?

Folic acid is a B vitamin, B9, found in vitamin supplements and fortified foods. Folate, or folacin, is the natural form of the vitamin found in foods, such as broccoli, bananas and orange juice. Folate is less readily absorbed by the body (50%) than its synthetic counterpart (85% to 95%).

Why is it necessary?

Among its many important functions, folic acid works in tandem with vitamin B12 to build and maintain healthy red blood cells. This is especially true during pregnancy when cell growth is rapid. It is also vital to the development of a fetus’ brain, skull and spine during the first month of pregnancy since neural tube defects occur 25 to 29 days after conception, according to The Hospital for Sick Children.

NTDs occur when the neural tube, which forms the brain and spinal cord, does not close properly during the earliest stage of pregnancy, often when the mother does not even realize she is pregnant, causing brain, skull and spine abnormalities. Health Canada reports that approximately 260 newborns a year are afflicted with an NTD.

According to the International Federation for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus, spina bifida is one of the most widespread NTDs. In its most severe form, it causes paralysis and problems with bladder and bowel control. Another serious developmental condition associated with insufficient folic acid is anencephaly, says the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, in which the brain partially develops or fails to develop and the brain tissue is not covered by bone. Anencephalic pregnancies often result in miscarriage or the infant dies shortly after birth.

Women of childbearing age who have a family history of NTDs, are diabetic, epileptic or obese, run a higher risk of having a child who develops a congenital abnormality. They may be prescribed a higher dose of folic acid — the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC) advises a range of 4 to 5 mg per day, depending on the individual — and should consult their physician before planning a pregnancy.

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