How Much Folic Acid During Pregnancy

Folic acid is a water soluble vitamin and is part of the B-vitamin family. It is important for pregnant women to take folic acid because it helps to prevent certain birth defects of the baby's brain and spine. The recommended amount of folic acid for pregnant women is 400 micrograms (mcg) per day. Pregnant women should start taking folic acid as soon as they know they are pregnant. Foods that are rich in folic acid include leafy green vegetables, legumes, nuts, and fortified foods. Supplements that are rich in folic acid include prenatal vitamins and folic acid supplements.  gofolic.org  associated with not taking enough folic acid during pregnancy include birth defects of the baby's brain and spine."