Question

How much folic acid do I need to take?

Answer

In pregnancy, you need 400 micrograms of folic acid a day. It is difficult to get this amount from food alone, so start taking a supplement from the time you stop using contraception until the twelfth week of pregnancy. This is the most crucial period in your baby's development. If you fall pregnant unexpectedly, start taking a supplement as soon as you find out that you are expecting and ask your GP or midwife for advice.

As well as taking a supplement, try to eat plenty of foods that are naturally rich in folate. These include green vegetables, especially broccoli, asparagus and peas, as well as chickpeas, brown rice, fortified cereals and bread, oranges and bananas.

Higher doses
In some cases, you might need to take a higher daily dose of folic acid, for example if you have epilepsy or diabetes or if you have already had a pregnancy affected by a birth defect of the brain or spinal cord. If you think you fall into a higher risk group, it is important to consult your GP about folic acid before you start trying for a baby. Never take a higher dose of folic acid without seeking medical advice first.

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