According to Healthline, Folic acid, also known as folate or vitamin B9, is a crucial nutrient for the body. It plays an essential role in the production of red blood cells and DNA synthesis, making it particularly important during pregnancy. Folic acid is found naturally in many foods, including leafy green vegetables, fruits, and fortified cereals. However, some people may not be getting enough of this vital nutrient through their diet alone. In such cases, taking a folic acid supplement can help meet their daily requirement. In this article, we will discuss who should take folic acid supplement more often.
1. Pregnant Women
Folic acid plays a vital role in the development of the fetus during pregnancy. A lack of folic acid can lead to birth defects in the baby's brain and spine, such as neural tube defects. Therefore, it is recommended that women who are pregnant or trying to conceive should take a daily folic acid supplement of at least 400mcg. Pregnant women with a family history of neural tube defects or those who have had a previous pregnancy affected by neural tube defects may be advised to take a higher dose of folic acid.
2. Women Planning a Pregnancy
Women who are planning to conceive should start taking a daily folic acid supplement at least one month before trying to get pregnant. This helps to build up the body's stores of folic acid, which is essential in the early weeks of pregnancy when the neural tube is forming.
3. People with Certain Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions can affect the body's ability to absorb folic acid, leading to a deficiency. These include celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and liver disease. People with these conditions may need to take a folic acid supplement to prevent a deficiency.
4. People Taking Certain Medications
Some medications can interfere with the body's ability to absorb folic acid or increase the body's demand for it. These include methotrexate, which is used to treat cancer and some autoimmune diseases, and certain anti-seizure medications. People taking these medications may need to take a folic acid supplement to prevent a deficiency.
5. Older Adults
As we age, our bodies become less efficient at absorbing nutrients from food. Therefore, older adults may not be getting enough folic acid from their diet alone. Taking a folic acid supplement can help ensure they meet their daily requirement.
In conclusion, folic acid is an essential nutrient for the body, particularly during pregnancy. While it is found naturally in many foods, some people may not be getting enough through their diet alone. Pregnant women, women planning a pregnancy, people with certain medical conditions, people taking certain medications, and older adults should consider taking a folic acid supplement to prevent a deficiency. However, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement.
Content created and supplied by: Healthlatest (via Opera News )
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