Women who take supplemental folic acid (the synthetic form of folate) during pregnancy significantly reduce their risk of having a baby with serious birth defects. A new study shows that this B vitamin can also reduce the risk of having a premature baby by 50% to 70% if it’s taken for at least a year before conception. The study, from the University of Texas, included nearly 35,000 women. All women of childbearing age are advised to take a daily supplement containing 400 to 800 micrograms of folic acid. Good food sources of folate include leafy greens, whole grains, fortified cereals, and beans, but it’s hard to get enough from diet alone. Learn more - <a href=\"http://www.news-medical.net/news/2009/05/12/Start-taking-a-vitamin-with-folic-acid-before-pregnancy.aspx\">http://www.news-medical.net/news/2009/05/12/Start-taking-a-vitamin-with-...</a>

Africa

A B-Vitamin a Day for Pregnant Women

Comments

Connect with women who are speaking out on issues, solutions, and movements worldwide.

Join a supportive, inclusive global community for all women.

New members must wait to send private messages until they are approved by a moderator. This is to ensure that World Pulse remains a safe place. Check back soon to send your message!

Please wait to send a private message

Report content that you suspect to be spam or violates World Pulse community guidelines, including hate speech, harassment, misinformation, and content from members who are under 16.

Are you sure you want to report this?

You will receive a notification every time there is a new comment or update in this story.