The Most Important Nutrient for Pregnant and Expectant Mothers

Folate is a water-soluble B-vitamin that is very beneficial for pregnant mothers. It occurs naturally in fresh vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, and legumes. Folic acid is the synthetic form of folate found in fortified grain products and dietary supplements. Pregnant women are recommended to consume 600 mcg of folate while expectant mothers are recommended to consume at least 400 micrograms of folate to reduce their risk of having a pregnancy affected by NTD or neural tube defect.

Neural tube malformations are critical defects that can cause disability to the baby. It can occur in an embryo right after it's conceived and often before the woman may realize that she is pregnant. There are two main kin of NTDs. The first one is Spina bifida; it is a disease that prevents a baby's spine from developing correctly. The second one is Anencephaly; it is a disease that prevents proper development of the brain. A baby born with this disease has severe underdeveloped brain and usually dies at birth. Aside from that, scientific studies also show that folic acid may help to decrease the risk of diseases related to the heart and blood vessels.

The best natural sources of Folate are pinto beans, spinach, broccoli, lentils, pasta, cereal, orange juice and avocado. Pregnant and expectant mothers should also see their doctor for the required vitamin or supplements of folic acid to meet the recommended amount needed to insure the health of their baby. When I was pregnant I take the prescribed vitamins that my doctor has given me and I also eat avocado and orange every day to insure my health as well as the health of my child and I'm so relieved that my baby is normal when I gave birth to her.