Why should you and your partner take folic acid?
Experts agree that all women of reproductive age should take 400 mcg of folic acid a day, in addition to consuming foods enriched with this type of B vitamin. An adequate intake of folic acid (folate) can help prevent major birth defects in the baby’s brain and spine [1].
In the earliest stages of pregnancy, folic acid helps in the development of the neural tube, from where the baby’s brain and spine will form [1]. Supplementation with folate is so important that women of reproductive age are urged to take it, even if they are not planning to become pregnant.
Folate is naturally found in dark leafy vegetables, legumes, fruits, and fortified grains, but the amount may not be enough, thus the importance of supplementation. Some women may need more than the standard daily recommendation of 400 mcg of folic acid a day, so your partner should consult her doctor about it before attempting pregnancy.
For couples planning to start or grow their family, it’s also a good idea for the man to take a supplement containing folic acid as it can improve male fertility [2].
