Pregnancy brings many changes to a woman’s body, and along with these changes comes the need for specific nutrients that support both maternal health and fetal development. One of the most crucial supplements recommended during this time is folic acid, a synthetic form of vitamin B9. But why is folic acid so important, and how does it specifically benefit both you and your baby?

What is Folic Acid and Why it is essential for your Baby’s Health?

Folic acid is a type of B-vitamin that the body requires for several critical functions, including DNA synthesis and cell division. The body uses folic acid for tissue growth and repair. While folate (the natural form of the vitamin) is present in many foods, folic acid, the synthetic version, is more easily absorbed and is the form typically recommended during pregnancy.

How Folic Acid Works in the Body

Folic acid is a key player in cell division—a process essential for the rapid growth and development that occurs during pregnancy. From the very early stages of fetal development, when the neural tube is forming, folic acid aids in the development of healthy neural structures. The neural tube eventually becomes the brain and spinal cord, and folic acid helps ensure it forms properly.

During pregnancy, the body needs more folic acid to support increased blood volume and to ensure that all the cells—both maternal and fetal—are dividing correctly. Folic acid also plays a role in protein metabolism and the formation of red blood cells, which is especially important to prevent megaloblastic anemia, a condition that can cause fatigue and weakness.

Key Benefits of Folic Acid During Pregnancy

• Prevention of Neural Tube Defects (NTDs): The most well-known benefit of folic acid is its ability to prevent neural tube defects (NTDs). Neural tube defects like spina bifida and anencephaly occur when the neural tube doesn’t close properly during the early stages of pregnancy. By supporting early brain and spinal cord development, folic acid significantly reduces the risk of these potentially life-threatening conditions.
• Supports Brain and Spinal Cord Formation: Folic acid helps the cells in the neural tube to multiply and differentiate, contributing directly to the formation of the brain and spinal cord. This ensures the neural tube forms properly and fully, setting the stage for proper cognitive and nervous system development.
• Reduces Risk of Other Complications: Beyond preventing NTDs, folic acid may help reduce the likelihood of preterm birth, low birth weight, and preeclampsia (high blood pressure during pregnancy). Adequate folic acid intake is also linked to a decreased risk of some birth defects, including certain heart defects and urinary tract abnormalities in babies.
• Helps Maintain Maternal Health: Folic acid is not only vital for the baby, but it also supports the mother’s health. It helps prevent anemia by encouraging the production of healthy red blood cells. As the mother’s body is working overtime to support the developing baby, adequate folic acid intake can help keep energy levels up and reduce the risk of complications like fatigue and weakness.
• Tissue Repair and Cell Growth: Folic acid supports the production of new cells and tissues. During pregnancy, the mother’s body needs to constantly create new cells to maintain both her and her baby’s health. Whether it’s repairing tissues after physical activity or supporting the growth of the placenta, folic acid ensures healthy, continuous tissue growth.

When Should You Start Taking Folic Acid?

It’s important to start taking folic acid before conception and continue through the first trimester, as neural tube development begins early in pregnancy. Consult your doctor to determine the appropriate dosage, especially if you have risk factors such as a family history of neural tube defects or are expecting multiples.

Types and Sources

Traditional folic acid needs to be converted into its active form (L-methylfolate) to be used by the body. Some individuals may have difficulty with this conversion, making bioactive forms like Quatrefolic® an ideal option. Quatrefolic® is already in its active state, allowing for easier absorption and efficient use, ensuring optimal folate levels for maternal health and fetal development.

Folate is also found in foods like:

• Leafy greens
• Citrus fruits
• Legumes
• Fortified grains

While these foods are helpful, supplements are often recommended to ensure consistent and sufficient levels of folic acid.

We hope you found this article helpful!

Ciconea Team