What are the important roles of folic acid in pregnant women?

Folic acid is very important for the development of the fetus. Women who are preparing for pregnancy should supplement it in advance. This can effectively prevent anemia, reduce health problems of the fetus in the mother's body, and effectively prevent congenital malformations and neural tube defects. It also plays an important role in giving birth to healthy babies.

1. Prevent anemia in pregnant women:

A pregnant woman's body needs folic acid to make normal red blood cells. The survey shows that the prevalence of anemia among Chinese women of childbearing age is 20.6%. Insufficient folic acid intake may also cause anemia in pregnant women.

2. Prevent congenital malformations in babies:

Reduce the risk of birth defects in your baby. Taking folic acid tablets can prevent birth defects such as congenital heart disease in the fetus.

3. Prevent neural tube defects:

Neural tube defects are common congenital malformations in newborns in China. If women take the recommended daily dose of folic acid at least one month before conception and during the first three months of pregnancy, they can reduce the risk of neural tube defects in their baby by 50%-70%.

4. Promote placental development:

Affects the basic structure of DNA and cells, so getting enough folic acid is especially important for the rapidly growing placenta and baby.

5. Preventing Preeclampsia in Pregnant Women:

Taking a multivitamin that contains folic acid may reduce a pregnant woman's risk of preeclampsia.