Folic Acid Essential in Pregnancy and Infancy
Folic Acid Essential in Pregnancy and Infancy
By Viola Woolcott
Folic Acid also known as folate in its natural form belongs to the Vitamin B-group. It is a water-soluble Vitamin and therefore doesn’t store in the body. It is passed out when you urinate, which means that you need it in your diet every day. By eating a varied, healthy and balanced diet, you should be able to get the amount that you need.
Folic Acid has many important functions. It is required for the production as well as the maintenance of new cells, which is especially important during times of fast cell division and growth during pregnancy and infancy in particular.
Folate is needed to mimic DNA as well as helping to prevent changes to DNA which could lead to cancer. To make normal red blood cells as well as preventing anaemia, both adults and children need folate.
If you are thinking about becoming pregnant, Folic Acid plays an important role during the pre-conceptional period, just before and just after you become pregnant. It helps reduce the risk of neural tube defects such as spina bifida in unborn babies.
It has been recognised that folic acid is important for the whole family. Studies are suggesting that it may prevent heart disease, colon cancer, stroke as well as breast cancer. There is also concern for older people in particular. As we get older it becomes more and more difficult to absorb Vitamin B12. We need Folic Acid for its absorption.
Folic Acid in Foods:
Lentils, Asparagus, Brussels sprouts, Peas, Spinach, Black beans, Peanuts (only if you do not have a peanut allergy), Orange juice, enriched breads and pasta, Romaine lettuce, Broccoli, Chick Peas, Brown Rice and some fruits such as oranges and bananas.
Filed under: Health and Diet on November 30th, 2007
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