Folic acid protection during pregnancy

Folic Acid: The Unsung Hero of a Healthy Pregnancy

Theo Raines in Health & Wellness December 2025 • 4 min read.

"Correcting the Record on Folic Acid Dosage for Preventing Birth Defects"

Ensuring a healthy pregnancy is a top priority for expectant parents. Among the many essential nutrients, folic acid stands out as a crucial factor in fetal development. Recent research highlights the critical role of folic acid in preventing neural tube defects, emphasizing the importance of accurate information and proper dosage.

A published correction in the American Journal of Physiology – Heart and Circulatory Physiology addresses a previous error regarding the recommended daily intake of folic acid for pregnant women. This correction underscores the necessity of staying informed with the most accurate and up-to-date guidelines.

This article aims to clarify the correct dosage of folic acid during pregnancy, explain its significance in preventing birth defects, and provide expectant mothers with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their health and their baby's well-being.

Why Folic Acid Matters: Preventing Neural Tube Defects

Folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, is essential for cell growth and development. During pregnancy, the demand for folic acid increases significantly as it plays a vital role in the formation of the neural tube, which develops into the baby's brain and spinal cord. Insufficient folic acid intake can lead to neural tube defects (NTDs), such as spina bifida and anencephaly.

The original research paper in the American Journal of Physiology – Heart and Circulatory Physiology explored the broader implications of endothelial nitric oxide synthase and cardiovascular health. Within this study, the importance of folic acid was highlighted in the context of its availability and impact on overall health, which has implications for prenatal health.

Spina Bifida: A condition where the spinal cord doesn't close completely during pregnancy.
Anencephaly: A severe birth defect in which a baby is born without parts of the brain and skull.
Other NTDs: Can lead to lifelong disabilities and health challenges.

The correction published clarifies that women should consume 600 micrograms (µg) of folic acid daily during pregnancy to reduce the risk of NTDs. The original article incorrectly stated 600 milligrams (mg), a thousandfold difference that could have significant implications for prenatal care.

Ensuring a Healthy Pregnancy: Actionable Steps

Understanding the correct dosage of folic acid is a crucial step in ensuring a healthy pregnancy. By consuming 600 µg of folic acid daily, expectant mothers can significantly reduce the risk of neural tube defects and give their babies the best possible start in life.

Stay informed, consult healthcare professionals, and prioritize your prenatal health to navigate your pregnancy journey with confidence and peace of mind.

Remember, every pregnancy is unique, and personalized advice from healthcare providers is essential. Empower yourself with knowledge, advocate for your health, and embrace the journey of motherhood with informed decisions and proactive care.

About this Article -

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Everything You Need To Know

What is folic acid and why is it important during pregnancy?

Folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, is essential for cell growth and development. During pregnancy, the demand for folic acid increases significantly as it plays a vital role in the formation of the neural tube. Insufficient folic acid intake can lead to neural tube defects (NTDs), such as spina bifida and anencephaly. These are conditions where the spinal cord or brain do not develop properly during pregnancy.

What is the correct dosage of folic acid for pregnant women?

The correct daily dosage of folic acid during pregnancy is 600 micrograms (µg). This amount is essential for preventing neural tube defects (NTDs), which include spina bifida and anencephaly. Taking the right amount of folic acid helps ensure the neural tube, which forms the baby's brain and spinal cord, develops correctly. This accurate dosage is a crucial step in ensuring a healthy pregnancy.

What are neural tube defects (NTDs)?

Neural tube defects (NTDs) are birth defects that affect the brain, spine, and spinal cord. These defects can lead to lifelong disabilities and health challenges. The two most common NTDs are spina bifida, where the spinal cord doesn't close completely, and anencephaly, where a baby is born without parts of the brain and skull. Adequate folic acid intake during pregnancy significantly reduces the risk of these conditions.

Can taking the wrong dosage of folic acid be harmful?

Yes, taking the wrong amount of folic acid can have serious implications. The article highlights that the original paper in the American Journal of Physiology – Heart and Circulatory Physiology incorrectly stated a dosage of 600 milligrams (mg) instead of 600 micrograms (µg). This thousandfold difference could lead to either insufficient or potentially harmful levels of folic acid consumption. Following the correct dosage of 600 µg daily is vital to prevent neural tube defects and ensure a healthy pregnancy.

What steps can expectant mothers take to ensure a healthy pregnancy in relation to folic acid?

To ensure a healthy pregnancy, expectant mothers should consume 600 µg of folic acid daily. Folic acid plays a crucial role in preventing neural tube defects (NTDs) like spina bifida and anencephaly. Along with taking the right amount of folic acid, expectant mothers should also follow the most up-to-date guidelines and consult their healthcare providers. These steps are essential for making informed decisions about their health and the baby's well-being.