Vitamin
Folate & Folic Acid
Folate (and its supplement form, folic acid) helps make healthy red blood cells and is vital in early pregnancy to prevent serious birth defects of the baby's spine and brain.
What it is
Folate is a B vitamin; folic acid is the man-made form used in supplements and fortified foods.
What it does
It helps form healthy red blood cells and is essential for a baby's early development — particularly the neural tube that becomes the brain and spinal cord.
Good sources
Green leafy vegetables, beans and pulses, and fortified foods; folic acid supplements are recommended around pregnancy.
Deficiency and who is at risk
Low folate causes a type of anaemia. Crucially, low folate around conception increases the risk of neural tube defects (such as spina bifida), which is why folic acid supplements are advised before and in early pregnancy.
Balance
Can you have too much?
Folic acid is generally safe, but very high doses can mask a vitamin B12 deficiency, so recommended amounts should be followed.
Education and reference only. This is general nutrition information, not personal advice, and does not give doses. Ask a pharmacist, GP or registered dietitian before starting supplements, especially with a health condition or in pregnancy.
Answers
Folate & Folic Acid: frequently asked questions
Why is folic acid important in pregnancy?
Taking folic acid before conception and in early pregnancy greatly reduces the risk of neural tube defects such as spina bifida in the baby. It is recommended for anyone trying to conceive.
Related
More on vitamins and nutrition
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Vitamins and minerals
- British Dietetic Association (BDA)
- UK Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN)
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