Babies at risk if mums do not take Folic Acid

UrBod Nutritionist Melody Mackeown, who specialists in pre-conceptual care, fertility and pregnancy, always recommends 400mcg (micrograms) of folic acid daily. Many women do not know they are pregnant for some weeks so it is essential that folic acid is taken all the time and especially if you know that you are trying to have a baby.

The U. S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have again strongly advised all women, especially those between 18 and 24 years of age, to make sure they get the necessary intake of folic acid says Mackeown.

However, according to a number of surveys conducted into the awareness and knowledge of taking folic acid, a surprisingly high number of mums and mums to be did not know about the health benefits which include a significant reduction in the risk of a child being born with neural tube defects, which give rise to abnormalities of the brain and spine.

While folic acid is widely accepted by health experts worldwide, says UrBod Nutritionist Melody Mackeown, there are a number of other nutrients that would hugely benefit both mums and babies, especially where there is a risk of allergies (such as eczema, asthma and hayfever) in families. Furthermore, nutrients like folic acid work better if taken with other members of the B vitamin family.

Consequently, seeking professional dietary and supplement advice may help considerably avoid this debilitating condition, says UrBod Nutritionist Melody Mackeown.

To find out more, contact Melody Mackeown