The importance of folic acid during pregnancy

You’ve probably heard about the importance of taking folic acid during pregnancy—but do we really understand why? At URE Centro Gutenberg, we’ve noticed that many of our patients have questions about this essential vitamin.

Let’s clear those doubts today! In this article, we’ll answer the most frequently asked questions about folic acid during pregnancy so you can better understand its role in maternal and fetal health.

What Is Folic Acid?

Folic acid is a water-soluble B-group vitamin that plays a key role in the nervous system and in cellular regeneration. It supports three vital functions in the body:

• Cell growth

• Production of red blood cells

• DNA formation

Why Should You Take Folic Acid During Pregnancy?

There are two main reasons why it is recommended to take folic acid during pregnancy.

1. Increased Nutritional Needs:
   The amount of folic acid you get from food is generally not enough during pregnancy. According to the Spanish Society of Gynecology, the recommended daily intake of folic acid for women is 200 micrograms. However, during pregnancy or when trying to conceive, that number should rise to between 400 and 800 micrograms daily. Women who are breastfeeding should aim for about 300 micrograms per day.

   Even though the Mediterranean diet can meet the basic needs, it may not provide the additional folic acid required during pregnancy—making daily supplementation necessary.

2. The Body Doesn’t Store It:
   The human body cannot store folic acid; what it doesn’t use is eliminated through urine. This makes it crucial to consume folic acid regularly—both through food and supplements—especially when pregnant.

How Does Folic Acid Help During Pregnancy?

Studies show that taking folic acid during pregnancy significantly reduces the risk of several birth defects and complications, including:

• Neural tube defects like spina bifida and anencephaly

• Cleft lip and cleft palate

• Congenital heart conditions

• Pregnancy-related anemia

• Risk of miscarriage, preeclampsia, and premature birth

When Should You Start Taking It?

Ideally, folic acid supplementation should begin one month before trying to conceive, as the fetus’s neural system starts to develop during the first four weeks of pregnancy.

Which Foods Are Rich in Folic Acid?

Green leafy vegetables are your best friends here! Spinach, green beans, broccoli, and chard are excellent sources. Other great options include:

• Beef liver

• Sunflower seeds

• Legumes (lentils, chickpeas, beans)

For drinks, natural orange juice and non-alcoholic beer are among the best sources of folic acid.

Still unsure about how much folic acid you need or when to start taking it? Our fertility experts at URE Centro Gutenberg are here to guide you!