
Folic acid and Spina Bifida?
Even though folate is found in
foods such as liver, leafy green vegetables and whole grain bread, it’s
recommended you start taking a daily 400mcg folic acid (the synthetic form of
folate) before trying to conceive. As soon as you find out you’re pregnant,
switch to a daily 600mcg supplement.
What are the benefits
All babies are at risk of a
neural tube defect, such as spina bifida, which affect the development of the
brain and spinal cord. Most of these defects occur in the first 12 weeks of
pregnancy, which is why it’s vital to start taking folic acid before you’re
pregnant. Folic acid plays a large role in cell growth and development as well
as tissue formation and has been shown to reduce your baby’s risk of a neural
tube defect.
What is spina bifida
Spina bifida is a condition that
occurs when one or more of the vertebrae in the spine don't close properly,
leaving the nerves in the spine unprotected. This can cause damage to your
baby’s central nervous system. There are varying degrees of severity with spina
bifida – in mild cases there may be a small dimple or hair growth on the back
that rarely causes any disability and can even remain undiscovered. More
serious cases leave the spinal cord tissue and nerves unprotected and can
result in problems with bladder and bowel control, paralysis and hydrocephalus
(fluid on the brain which can be drained via a permanent shunt).
Who’s at risk
- Women who’ve already had a
baby with a neural tube defect (although 95 percent of them occur in women with
no previous history). Studies show that moms who’ve had one child with a neural
tube defect can lower their risk of having another by 72 percent if they take a
folic acid supplement.
- Women who’ve had twins or
multiples, or who’ve had babies close together, since this may result in
vitamin and mineral deficiencies
- Women who take medication to
control seizures.
- Women who are obese or diabetic.
How can I avoid it?
Start taking a folic acid
supplement at least a month before you’re thinking of trying for a baby. See
also diet for a healthy pregnancy.
The information in this feature is intended for
educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the
health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a
doctor or other healthcare professional.