Every woman's life is filled with happiness when she finds out that she is carrying a child under her heart. But this happiness can be broken by illnesses and defects in the development of the unborn baby. To prevent this, you need to know what folic acid is, what it is for and, of course, take it. Folic acid (also known as vitamin B9) is extremely important for normal fetal development.
It is especially important to take it during the first three months (first trimester) of pregnancy.
Folic acid: what is it for?
This vitamin is incredibly beneficial for the neural tube of the fetus. What is it and why is it important that this very tube develops correctly? The fact is that the bone marrow is formed from the neural tube. He, as everyone knows, plays an important role in human life, therefore, in order for the neural tube to develop correctly, the expectant mother must take folic acid.
The peculiarity of the development of this organ lies in the fact that it begins to emerge in the body of the fetus from the very conception, and therefore folicacid must be supplied to the tiny body from the start.
What is the danger of a lack of folic acid in the body of a pregnant woman?
The consequences of a lack of folic acid in mommy and crumbs are terrifying. This vitamin is responsible for blood formation and the absorption of iron in the body. Remember that the bodies of mother and child are interconnected, and everything that mommy feels, the child will also have to experience. If you feel weak and tired, and tests show that you have anemia, then this may mean that folic acid is not retained in your body. What else is this vitamin needed for and why is its lack dangerous? A woman who neglects this vitamin risks not only the he alth of her unborn child, but also his loss. In addition to the development of organ pathologies, a deficiency of this substance can lead to a delay in the development of the child, and the most terrible consequence is a violation of the structure of the placenta, which can lead to miscarriage.
What should I do?
A conscious future mother, as soon as she finds out about her interesting situation, should immediately contact a doctor who will definitely tell her why folic acid is important, what it is for. The doctor will definitely advise you to take it. But you need to remember that this vitamin can also be found in food. Folic acid in foods is in small concentrations, so it is still necessary to take it with medication. Must eat during pregnancycereals, dark green vegetables, drink tomato juice and kefir, eat berries and fruits, do not forget about cream and add wheat germ to your diet. Once again, please note that the consumption of these products will not fully meet the body's needs for folic acid.
What about before pregnancy?
It is worth noting that folic acid before pregnancy also plays a very important role. If you are planning to become a mother, then start taking the vitamin a few months before conception. Now you know what folic acid is. Why you and your baby need it, you already know too. Therefore, take care of the he alth of your crumbs even before he is born!
