Folic Acid and Prevention of Spina Bifida
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.

  • Medical care should begin early in pregnancy
Additional Information concerning Folic Acid ...
Additional Information concerning Spina Bifida, Anencephaly, Encephalocele ...