The NHS has shared guidance on folic acid, a form of vitamin B9, which is particularly important for those who are pregnant or trying to conceive
The NHS has explained the importance of folic acid during pregnancy(Image: Getty)
If you’re trying for a baby or expecting, there’s an essential vitamin worth knowing about, according to the NHS.
The National Health Service (NHS) explains that folic acid is a synthetic form of folate, a vitamin also known as vitamin B9. Folate helps produce healthy red blood cells and is naturally found in foods like broccoli.
People take this vitamin for various purposes, particularly during pregnancy. The NHS states: “It’s recommended you take folic acid as soon as you start trying for a baby (ideally for 3 months before) and during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. This will help your baby’s brain and spine to develop normally.”
Pregnant women can also “take folic acid after 12 weeks.” It notes that the vitamin helps to produce red blood cells. “Your doctor or midwife may recommend that you keep taking folic acid throughout pregnancy if you are anaemic or at risk of anaemia”, it adds.
How much folic acid should I take?
The quantity of folic acid required and how long you take it depends on why it’s been recommended. Always consult your doctor before starting any new medication, vitamins, or supplements.
The recommended dosage is 400 micrograms daily. However, your GP might prescribe a stronger dose, usually 5 mg, if there is a heightened risk of neural tube defects in your baby, such as conditions impacting the brain or spine like spina bifida.
Always seek help from your doctor before starting any new medication(Image: Getty)
Your chance of having a baby with a neural tube defect may be higher if:
You have previously had a pregnancy affected by a neural tube defectYou or the baby’s biological father has a neural tube defectYou or the baby’s biological father has a family history of neural tube defectsYou have diabetesYou’re very overweightYou have sickle cell diseaseYou’re taking certain epilepsy medicinesYou’re taking antiretroviral medicines for HIV
If you are not pregnant but want to have a baby soon, the NHS stresses there’s “no evidence that folic acid reduces fertility in either men or women. Folic acid does not help you get pregnant, but it’s recommended while you’re trying to get pregnant and in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.”
Should I take folic acid with food and water?
People wanting to have a baby soon may also benefit from folic acid(Image: Getty)
The NHS suggests: “You can take folic acid with or without food. Swallow the tablets whole with a drink of water.
“If you’re taking folic acid as a liquid, it will come with a plastic syringe or spoon to help you measure out the right dose. If you do not have one, ask your pharmacist for one. Do not use a kitchen teaspoon as it will not measure the right amount.”
What should I do if I forgot to take folic acid?
Missing one or two doses usually won’t matter much. But if you often forget to take folic acid or aren’t sure whether to keep taking it, talk to your doctor.
It further warns: “Never take 2 doses to make up for a forgotten one. If you often forget doses, it may help to set an alarm to remind you. You could also ask your pharmacist for advice on other ways to help you remember to take your medicine.”
Taking too much folic acid is “unlikely to cause any harm” with folic acid being classed as “generally very safe” by the NHS. However, you should always “speak to your pharmacist or doctor” if you are worried.
What are good food sources of folate?
Folate is found in small amounts in many foods. Good sources include:
BroccoliBrussels sproutsLeafy green vegetables, such as cabbage, kale, spring greens and spinachPeasChickpeas and kidney beansLiver (avoid liver if you are pregnant)Breakfast cereals fortified with folic acid