Folic acid is a synthetic Vitamin B (folate) that our bodies do not naturally produce, so it must be taken as a supplement. Folic acid is important because it helps to produce new cells within the body. This vitamin supplement can help prevent miscarriage and allows for proper closure of the fetal neural tube when taken during the crucial early phases of pregnancy. It is particularly important for women who are childbearing age to take 400 mcg a day, because about half of U.S. pregnancies are unplanned. Taking folic acid regularly is necessary because the major birth defects of the brain and spinal cord occur very early in pregnancy before a woman has even received her free pregnancy test – before she’s even aware she’s pregnant.

Prenatal vitamins are required to contain this ingredient and are inexpensive and easy to find in any drugstore. Some dietary sources of folic acid include dark leafy vegetables, fortified cereals, bananas, and orange juice. Why not plan for the best health for you and your unborn baby by making prenatal vitamins and a healthy diet a part of your daily routine now!  All women of reproductive age should get 400 mcg of folic acid each day to get enough to help prevent some birth defects because:

• • About half of U.S. pregnancies are unplanned, and
  • Major birth defects of the baby’s brain or spine occur very early in pregnancy (3-4 weeks after conception), before most women know they are pregnant.