Folic Acid Tablets: Everything You Need to Know

Pregnancy is a transformative journey filled with tons of memorable experiences. However, it also comes with numerous responsibilities, especially regarding nutrition. Eating right ensures overall well-being during and after pregnancy. Folic Acid, a humanized B Vitamin called folate, plays a crucial role in the production of red blood cells and prevents neural tube defects (NTDs). Most people do not know the importance of Folic Acid and miss out on folic acid tablet supplements.

Thus, this blog will explain everything you need to know about Folic Acid. Moreover, we will mention the best folic acid tablets in pregnancy. Let’s start then.

Understanding Folic Acid

Folic Acid, a Vitamin B9, is a water-soluble vitamin. It is essential for optimal neural tube formation, cell growth and function, and DNA and RNA synthesis. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends expectant mothers to consume around 400 to 800 mcg of folic acid daily. WHO also suggests that expectant mothers should start taking folic acid tablets at least 2 to 3 months before conception and during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.

When Should I Start Taking Them?

The neural tube develops at the early stages of pregnancy, even before a woman realizes she is expecting. Therefore, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends starting folic acid tablets at least 2-3 months before planning to conceive and throughout the first trimester of pregnancy. 

How Much Should I Consume?

• While you are trying to conceive: 400 mcg
• During the first trimester: 600 mcg
• During the 2nd and 3rd trimesters: 600 mcg
• While breastfeeding: 500 mcg

What Are the Benefits of Folic Acid Supplements During Pregnancy?

Prevents Neural Tube Defects (NTDs): Neural tube defects, such as spina bifida and anencephaly, are severe birth defects that occur very early in pregnancy. These defects affect the brain and spinal cord of the baby. Consuming adequate folic acid during the initial weeks of pregnancy is essential to reduce the risk of NTDs.

Supports Healthy Cell Development: According to the World Health Organization, folic acid tablets help with healthy new cells development in the fetus, which includes red blood cells, DNA, and RNA.

Reduced Risk of Anaemia: Folic acid supplements during pregnancy help prevent the risk of anaemia in expectant mothers, because it aids in the RBC production.

Improves Neurodevelopment: Some studies note that folic acid tablets during pregnancy are related with enhances neurodevelopment in the little one.

Supports Placental Development: Folic Acid helps develop and form the placenta, a pivotal organ that provides nutrients and oxygen to the baby during pregnancy.

Reduces Birth Defects: As per proven studies, Folic Acid helps prevent birth disorders like heart defects or cleft lip, etc.

Promote Maternal Health: Folic Acid is essential for red blood cell production, thus preventing anaemia.

What Are the Natural Sources of Folic Acid?

Folic acid tablet in pregnancy is a reliable source of folic acid, but there are some natural sources that you can incorporate into your diet. These sources are:

• Leafy Greens: Spinach, Broccoli, and Kale
• Legumes: Lentils, Chickpeas, and Black Beans
• Citrus Fruits: Lemons, Oranges, and Grapefruits
• Avocados
• Eggs
• Beets
• Fortified Foods: Cereal, Bread, etc.

Risks of Folic Acid Deficiency

Inadequate amounts of folic acid can lead to several issues, like:

• Neural tube defects
• Megaloblastic anemia
• Neurological issues
• Gastrointestinal issues
• Increase homocysteine levels
• Low birth weight
• Preterm birth
• Maternal anemia
• More chances of pregnancy complications
  

What Makes Trimacare™ the Best Folic Acid Tablet?

Trimacare™ is renowned as the best folic acid tablet in pregnancy and top healthcare providers vouch for the same. It is formulated with 20+ essential nutrients like folic acid, calcium, vitamin D, vitamin B12, iodine, zinc, omega-3 DHA, etc., to support a healthy pregnancy.

Trimacare™ is a patented, trimester-specific, comprehensive formula that provides folic acid and other essential prenatal vitamins for the overall development of the mother and baby. It contains adequate folic acid content (as advised by the ICMR and the WHO) to meet the required daily amount to prevent neural tube defects. Additionally, the folic acid tablet is formulated for easy absorption by the body to utilize its efficiency.

This folic acid tablet during pregnancy is the first choice of top medical professionals in India. Curated according to the guidelines of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Trimacare™ is gentle on the stomach.

The smooth on-stomach design reduces the potential risk of gastrointestinal side effects, a frequent situation during pregnancy. In addition, it has an ideal combination of pyridoxine and anti-emetics to counteract morning sickness. GMO-free, this folic acid supplement aids in brain and cognitive development, organ development, as well as weight, without compromising maternal health and recovery.

Conclusion

Folic acid is a key ingredient that makes your pregnancy healthy and strong, both for you and your baby. From preventing neural tube defects, ensuring maternal well-being, and facilitating placental growth, to lowering birth defects, folic acid has unmatched advantages.

There are numerous natural sources of folate such as spinach, broccoli, kale, lentils, chickpeas, black beans, lemons, oranges, grapefruits, avocados, eggs, beets, and fortified foods such as cereal, bread, etc.

Yet, the typical Indian diet falls short of essential nutrients, which prevents a healthy pregnancy. Therefore, taking prenatal vitamins, like Trimacare™ folic acid tablets, helps address nutritional requirements.

FAQs

Why is folic acid essential for pregnant women?

The World Health Organization recommends consuming folic acid before and during early pregnancy as it helps reduce the risk of neural tube defects. It also helps with the neural tube formation, healthy cell growth, and DNA and RNA synthesis. 

At which stage is folic acid required?

Healthcare providers recommend starting a folic acid supplement at least 2-3 months before planning to conceive and during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.

What happens if I don’t consume folic acid?

Lack of proper intake of folic acid tablets during pregnancy puts you at a greater risk of developing neural tube defects (NTDs).

At what time should I take folic acid?

Healthcare professionals suggest consuming folic acid tablets daily at the same time, it could be morning or evening. Consistency is the key.

Who should not take folic acid?

If you have ever had an allergic reaction to folic acid, then you should consult your doctor regarding it.

What are the natural sources of folic acid?

We have listed below the best natural sources of folate for expecting mothers. Let’s have a look at them:

• Leafy Greens: Spinach, Broccoli, and Kale
• Legumes: Lentils, Chickpeas, and Black Beans
• Citrus Fruits: Lemons, Oranges, and Grapefruits
• Avocados
• Eggs
• Beets
• Fortified Foods: Cereal, Bread, etc.

Consult your healthcare provider about the intake of folic acid, its dosage, natural sources and choose Trimacare, the best folic acid tablet for positive pregnancy results and a healthier baby.