Folic Acid is for Everyone!

Folic Acid or Folate is also known a B9, is one of the most important vitamins to take while you're pregnant, as it can help prevent neural tube defects in your baby. However, its not just for woman who are hoping to get pregnant. Folic acid has been shown to prevent anemia, reverse gum disease, renew cell production, help with nerve function & even help inhibit such health issues as osteoporosis related bone fractures and Alzheimer's.

There are even links between Folic acid deficiency and certain cancers of the lung, uterus, cervix and colon as folic acid help support cell renewal, especially in areas that shed cells often. Some information shows folic acid deficiency can lead to restless leg syndrome as well as insomnia. With all the amazing health benefits, folate is an important part of every diet--male or female!　

Folic Acid & Pregnancy

Folic Acid is most famous for its role in helping to prevent neural tube defects such as spina bifida & anencephaly. Mothers who have a folic acid deficiency are more likely to have children with these types of birth defects, as folic acid help nerve tissue production during all stages of life. The time to begin taking folic acid is before you're even pregnant, as your infant will be affect by the state of your health prior to conception.

Dosage

Adults should have 400 micrograms per day, except for pregnant woman who should have 600. Remember, if you're planning on getting pregnant, be sure to take folic acid at least a month prior to pregnancy to give your child the best chance of avoiding neural tube defects.

Sources

Folate, the naturally occurring form of Folic Acid is found in highest concentration in calf's liver. If you're not a liver person, other great sources include lentils, chick peas, asparagus, & green leafy vegetables such as spinach, romaine lettuce, collard greens, broccoli, and turnip greens. Sweeter alternatives include papaya & raspberry.

One of the issues with getting enough folic acid is that cooking can reduce the amount of vitamin available to your body, so eating some of your folic acid from raw sources will help ensure bioavailability.

Many cereal and juice companies are fortifying their products with folic acid, so if you can't get enough green vegetables, they are an alternative. Of course, pregnant woman should take a vitamin supplement to ensure a steady dosage of all important nutrients.