Pregnancy is a period of excitement, hope and meticulous planning. Ensuring that one takes adequate folic acid is one of the most significant things a woman can do prior to and during early pregnancy. This vitamin B is important in the development of the foetus and in preventing congenital malformations.
Indeed, taking a folic acid tablet for pregnancy is usually the first thing doctors advise when planning pregnancy.
What is folic acid: Know More
Folic acid is a type of vitamin B9 essential for the production, repair and functioning of DNA which is a fundamental building block of the cell. Folic acid tablets for pregnancy are essential for the fast growth of cells in the placenta and unborn baby and prevent anaemia. Folic acid can be directly obtained from food sources or also in the form of folic acid tablets.
For pregnant women, folic acid is an essential nutrient. This is because folic acid helps with the early growth of the baby’s brain and spinal cord, usually before a woman even knows she’s pregnant.
Why is it important to take folic acid early?
Neural tube defects (NTDs), including spina bifida and anencephaly, happen early in pregnancy particularly during the first 3-4 weeks after conception. By this time many women come to know about their pregnancy, and this critical development may have pass. That’s why it is important to take folic acid tablets before pregnancy to reduce the risk of several birth defects.
Benefits of taking a folic acid tablet for pregnancy
Taking folic acid tablets not only prevents birth defects. Here are some benefits of folic acid tablets for pregnancy help ensure a healthy pregnancy-
Encourages healthy cell division- Folic acid helps in DNA synthesis and cell growth, both are crucial for foetal growth.
Helps in placenta development- A healthy placenta is needed to provide your baby with the nutrients they need during pregnancy.
Reduces risk of pregnancy complications- Proper intake of folic acid can reduce the risk of preeclampsia, preterm birth and low birth weight.
Improves mental health- It can also prevent anaemia and help overall energy levels in pregnancy.
Choosing the best folic acid tablet for pregnancy
When buying pregnancy supplements, you may find specific folic acid tablets or prenatal vitamins that include folic acid along with other nutrients like iron, calcium, omega-3, DHA etc. It is important to choose a folic acid tablet that contains adequate doses of daily folic acid intake(400mcg-800mcg), as recommended by your doctor. Pregnant women having diabetes, obesity or a history of NTDs in earlier pregnancies, may need higher doses. Therefore, it is advised to consult a doctor before starting any supplement during pregnancy.
Trimacare: The most preferred folic acid tablet for pregnant women
Trimacare is the first and the only pregnancy vitamin tablet in India specifically developed to cater to trimester-wise care and fill the nutritional gap of every pregnancy trimester. Trimacare pregnancy supplement is crafted by experts under the guidelines provided by the WHO and ICMR.
Trimacare folic acid tablets for pregnancy contain 570mcg of l-methyl folate. This folic acid tablet is an advanced form of folic acid and is 7times more bioavailable form of folic acid. This is also suitable for people with an MTHFR gene mutation.
Conclusion
Choosing the appropriate folic acid tablets is important during pregnancy. Always ensure you choose good quality folic acid tablets that offer the right dosage of folic acid.
With so many things to plan and prepare, it is also important to understand how folic acid tablets can make a big difference.
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