How much folic acid to take during early pregnancy

We all know the importance of folic acid tablets for a pregnant woman. Many people start taking folic acid tablets during the pregnancy preparation period, and they need to keep taking them until the third month of pregnancy, because folic acid tablets for pregnant women can prevent fetal malformations. So, how much folic acid tablets should be taken in early pregnancy? This is something that many pregnant mothers are not clear about. Let’s learn about it together.

How much folic acid tablets to take in early pregnancy

Generally, it is most effective for women to take folic acid tablets to prevent neural tube defects from one month before pregnancy to the end of three months of pregnancy. This is the growth and development stage of the fetus's nervous system. The daily intake should be strictly controlled. When choosing a brand, do not use large amounts of "folic acid" (one tablet contains 5 mg of folic acid) to avoid adverse effects on pregnant women and fetuses. The critical period for folic acid supplementation is the early pregnancy (3-6 weeks), so from 3 months before pregnancy to 3 months after pregnancy, you should insist on taking at least 400 mg of folic acid tablets every day. Under normal circumstances, it is best to take appropriate folic acid tablets throughout pregnancy. It is best to take folic acid tablets in the morning or early morning after breakfast for better absorption effect. Data show that the amount of folic acid in the human body is 5-6 mg, and the main way we take folic acid is through absorption from food. Authoritative experts recommend that the average amount for women is 400 mg, and the amount for those preparing for pregnancy and during pregnancy is 600-800 mg.

Of course, many pregnant mothers also take folic acid, but before that, they must consult their doctor about the daily dosage and the rational use of folic acid. It is recommended to adopt a scientific method of combining medicine and diet therapy to take it.

When to take folic acid tablets

Generally, doctors recommend that women of childbearing age should supplement folic acid for their bodies starting from 3 months before pregnancy. The purpose of taking folic acid tablets 3 months before pregnancy is to keep the folic acid content in women's bodies at a certain level, so as to ensure that the embryo has a good folic acid nutritional status in the early stage of pregnancy. The first three months of pregnancy is also a critical period for folic acid supplementation, as folic acid tablets are most effective at this time. Because the early pregnancy is a critical stage for the growth and development of the fetus, the body's demand for nutrients at this time is much greater than that of ordinary people. If the pregnant mother lacks folic acid tablets at this time, the baby is likely to be born with birth defects, such as congenital heart disease, cleft lip, intellectual disability and other problems.

In addition, if you find out when is the best time to take folic acid tablets every day, doctors suggest that pregnant women take them thirty minutes after a meal. At this time, the gastrointestinal digestion function has been fully started, and the body's absorption of folic acid is more sufficient and effective. And taking folic acid tablets after meals can avoid irritating the gastrointestinal tract and causing stomach bloating and pain when taking folic acid tablets on an empty stomach.