FOLIC ACID: The Best Tool To Prevent Neural Tube Defects

Folic acid is an important part of planning for a healthy pregnancy.

The two most common types of neural tube defects found are anencephaly and spina bifida.

Although many factors related to the development of spina bifida, research has found that folic acid (vitamin B-9), a nutrient found in some green, leafy vegetables, nuts, beans, citrus fruits, and fortified breakfast cereals, can help reduce the risk of neural tube defects. For this reason, the American College of Medical Genetics (ACMG) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that all women of childbearing age take a multivitamin containing folic acid.

Yes! Anyone who can become pregnant should get 400 mcg of folic acid daily, in addition to eating foods with folate from a varied diet, even if they do not plan on becoming pregnant. Our bodies use folic acid to make new cells like skin, hair, and nails. Start a healthy habit today by getting 400 mcg of folic acid every day.

Talking about its role, Folic is responsible for the complete development of red blood cells and maintaining the healthy circulation of the blood throughout the body by preventing the build-up of a substance called homocysteine (a potentially harmful product of cellular metabolism). Folate is an important nutrient for a healthy pregnancy.

Top 10 Sources Of Folic Acid

#1 Romaine Lettuce:

This is a variety of lettuce which grows in a tall head of sturdy leaves with firm ribs down their centers. Romaine lettuce contains 136ug of folate per serving. In one of the studies.

Other Lettuce High in Folate (%DV per cup shredded): Endive (18%), Butterhead (10%), Salad Cress (10%), Chicory (8%), and Arugula (4%).

#2 Spinach: