The nutritionist explains how supplementation can contribute to a healthy pregnancy
Folic acid is the synthetic form of vitamin B9, also known as folate. This substance is a B-complex vitamin essential for the formation of red blood cells and for healthy cell growth and function.
The nutrient is crucial during early pregnancy to reduce the risk of congenital deficiency in the brain and spine. In pregnant women, a lack of vitamin B9 leads to anemia and an increased risk of preeclampsia.
Vitamin B9 deficiency is also related to fetal malformations, miscarriages, as well as varying degrees of mental retardation and academic learning difficulties. Its deficiency can also lead to anxietydepression, fatigue, hair loss, glossitis and hypertension in pregnant women.
sources of folic acid
Folate is found primarily in dark green leafy vegetables, beans, peas and nuts. fruit rich in folate are oranges, lemons, bananas, melons and strawberries. The synthetic form of folate, folic acid, is an essential component of prenatal vitamins and is found in many fortified foods such as cereals and pastas.
Vitamin B9 supplementation
Current studies indicate that the best way to integration that would be methylfolate, which is vitamin B9 in its active form. This is because many people have genetic polymorphisms that make it impossible for folic acid to be converted into its active form. Therefore, supplemental methylfolate overcomes this biochemical obstacle.
Most importantly, we can further optimize its absorption by supplementing sublingually. In this way we increase the bioavailability of methylfolate, absorbing it without passing through the microbial barrier and the gastrointestinal tract. In any case, consulting a doctor is essential to recommend the correct form and dosage of the vitamin.
Benefits of methylfolate
Methyfolate is responsible for reducing the levels of homocysteine, a toxic substance linked to cardiovascular disease, kidneys and neurological. Furthermore, methylfolate is essential for methylation reactions, a fundamental process in gene regulation, membrane and myelin sheath formation, being essential in fetal formation.
Emotional health benefits of the pregnant woman
Since much of vitamin B9 is transmitted to the fetus through the placenta, the pregnant woman may be deficient in this essential nutrient. She could also suffer from depression, as the vitamin is essential in the synthesis of neurotransmitters related to mood and motivation, such as serotonin and dopamine.
Women who are trying to get pregnant (those on trial) should also pay attention to eating foods with a good supply of vitamin B9, to prepare the body for a healthy and peaceful pregnancy.
Ideal amount of consumption
The recommended daily amount of folate for adults is 400 micrograms. However, the demand for folate increases during pregnancybecause it is also necessary for the growth and development of the fetus.
To ensure that women have adequate folate stores during pregnancy, the National Institutes of Health and the US Institute of Medicine recommend 600 mcg of folic acid per day. When breastfeeding, it is reduced to 500 mcg.
therefore, the Vitamin B9 is required for good gestational health and supplementation in the form of methylfolate is the best way to correct its deficiency or maintain its prime levels in the body. Remembering that the ideal is to have a medical check-up and follow the guidelines for adequate and healthy consumption.
Edited by Alessandra Feltre
NOPassionate nutritionist. He disseminates the latest and most current science and evidence that enable a great quality of life, simply and objectively, in practical and easy to understand language.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
