A new study confirms that taking folic acid makes a woman 70 percent less likely to have a baby with a birth defect like cerebral palsy.
Folic acid is the synthetic form of the vitamin folate and women should begin taking it at least three to six months before conception.
And, since about half of all pregnancies are unplanned, regular consumption of the vitamin — even for those not intending to have a baby — is more critical, according to health officials.
Folic acid, a B vitamin, can help prevent spinal and brain birth defects, such as spina bifida and anencephaly as well as other defects not related to birth trauma.
Health officials recommend that women take a folic acid supplement daily to ensure they are getting the recommended 400 micrograms a day.
Many foods naturally contain folate, and all enriched cereals and grain products in the United State are fortified with folic acid. However, only one-third of U.S. women get the recommended amount.
