Folate and Folic Acid

Folate and folic acid

Folate is a B group vitamin and is essential for the healthy growth and development of babies during early pregnancy. Folate is found naturally in foods such as green leafy vegetables, avocados, citrus fruits, legumes and nuts and as folic acid when added to foods such as bread and breakfast cereals or taken as a dietary supplement. Folate has been found to be particularly important in the development of the nervous system and for preventing neural tube defects such as spina bifida.

It is recommended that women planning a pregnancy increase their intake of folate rich foods and take a daily folic acid supplement for at least one month prior to becoming pregnant and at least three months into your pregnancy.

For more information;

Pregnancy Birth & Baby – Folate and Pregnancy

Better Health Channel – Folate for Pregnant Women

Food Standards Australia and New Zealand – Folic Acid / Folate and Pregnancy

Sources: (Better Health Channel)  (Food Standards Australia and New Zealand)

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