Ive heard a lot in the news about folic acid. How important is folic acid?
If you eat a balanced diet that includes fruits, green vegetables and whole grains, you are probably getting enough folic acid. However, if you have a family history of neural tube defects (such as spina bifida) or have previously given birth to a baby with a neural tube defect, it is recommended that you take 4 grams of folic acid supplements before conception and throughout the first trimester of pregnancy. Check with your health care provider for more information. Folic-rich foods include: • Breakfast cereals (1 serving): 100-400 micrograms folic acid • Asparagus (½ cup cooked): 88 micrograms folic acid • Spinach (½ cup cooked): 110 micrograms folic acid • Brussel sprouts (½ cup cooked): 46 micrograms folic acid • Orange juice (1 cup): 109 micrograms folic acid • Orange (1 medium): 39 micrograms folic acid • Black beans (½ cup cooked): 128 micrograms folic acid • Lentils (½ cup cooked): 179 micrograms folic acid • Pinto beans (½ cup cooked): 147 micrograms fo
If you eat a balanced diet that includes fruits, green vegetables and whole grains, you are probably getting enough folic acid. However, if you have a family history of neural tube defects (such as spina bifida) or have previously given birth to a baby with a neural tube defect, it is recommended that you take 4 grams of folic acid supplements before conception and throughout the first trimester of pregnancy. Check with your health care provider for more information.
