If you are of child bearing age you need to know that an adequate
intake of Folic Acid can help to prevent birth defects known as
neural tube defects (NTD). Conditions such as spina bifida (open
spine), anencephaly (open skull) and encephalocele (gap in the skull)
are examples of neural tube defects. If you had a child with NTD
(neural tube defect, spina bifida, anencephaly or encephalocele)
you may prevent a RECURRENCE. Take folic acid supplements BEFORE
you get pregnant and WHILE you are pregnant.
Our team recommends ...
Every woman of child bearing age should take 0.4mg of Folic
Acid daily,
even if no pregnancy is planned.
Every woman at risk of RECURRENCE should consume ten times
more (4 mg)
folic acid BEFORE and DURING pregnancy.
Well balanced diet to include foods high in Folic Acid content
such as:
Green leafy vegetables
Beans and peas
Fortified cereals
Orange juice
(Remember - Enough Folic Acid cannot be obtained
by diet alone, you need a supplement.)
If you or a member of your family have a defect of the spine
or the brain,you should have your family history evaluated by
your physician because you may need to take more Folic
Acid.
Birth Defects Genetics Center - Mobile, Alabama 36688-0002 / 251-460-7500 For questions or comments contact
us or call toll free 1-800-624-1865
Date last changed: April 16, 2003 2:41 PM
http://www.southalabama.edu/genetics
