Folic acid plays an important role in a healthy pregnancy. UnidosUS is continuing our work to improve the health and nutrition of Latinos across the country, including by advocating for increased consumption of folic acid as part of healthy eating and implementing culturally relevant nutrition education and programming.
By Alejandra Gepp, Health Programs Director for Training and Engagement, UnidosUS
A healthy pregnancy involves a number of components, including physical activity, appropriate weight gain, balanced nutrition or diet, and supplements, such as prenatal vitamins and folic acid. Folic acid, which is a member of the B-group of vitamins, is especially essential in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Found mostly in dark green vegetables, beans, and enriched grains—which constitute most flours, cereals, and breads on the market today—people who are pregnant or looking to conceive should also take a folic acid supplement as even a high-folate diet won’t be enough to meet the CDC recommendation of 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid a day.
