News — maternal health
Folic Acid During Pregnancy: Essential for Healthy Fetal Development
birth defects breastfeeding embryonic development fetal development folate deficiency folic acid gestation maternal health morning sickness nausea neural tube defects obstetrics perinatal care postnatal care pregnancy prenatal care prenatal nutrition prenatal supplements prenatal vitamins vitamin B1 vitamin B9
Folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, is an essential water-soluble vitamin crucial for various bodily functions. It plays a significant role in DNA and RNA synthesis, cell division, and the production of healthy red blood cells. This is especially critical during periods of rapid growth, such as pregnancy and infancy, as folic acid ensures proper development and prevents deficiencies that can lead to severe health issues.
During pregnancy, folic acid becomes even more vital due to its role in fetal development. It is particularly important for the formation of the neural tube, which eventually develops into the baby’s brain and spinal cord. Adequate intake of folic acid before and during early pregnancy significantly reduces the risk of neural tube defects (NTDs), such as spina bifida and anencephaly, making it an indispensable nutrient for expectant mothers.