Folic acid is one of the most essential nutrients for maintaining a healthy pregnancy. It plays a vital role in the formation of the neural tube in the baby, which eventually forms the brain and spinal cord. For this reason, health professionals have advised women to take folic acid for pregnancy before getting pregnant and up to the early stages of pregnancy.

With so many options, it is sometimes confusing to choose the best folic acid tablet. This blog outlines factors to consider when finding the right folate tablets for pregnancy and highlights some of the top picks on the market.

Why Folic Acid is important during pregnancy?

Folic Acid is the synthetic form of folate, Vitamin B9. Here’s why you need it-

  • Folic acid helps prevent serious birth defects in the baby, such as spina bifida and anencephaly.
  • This helps in DNA synthesis and red blood cells, which are essential during pregnancy.
  • Folic acid is important for pregnancy as it reduces the risk of preterm labour.
  • It reduces the risk of developing preeclampsia and other pregnancy complications.

Due to these benefits, doctors prescribe pregnant women to start taking folate tablets at least one month before conception and continue throughout the first trimester.

What factors should be considered when buying the best folic acid tablet for Pregnancy?

  • Folic Acid vs Methyl folate- Some women inherit a genetic mutation that makes synthetic folic acid difficult to metabolize. In this condition, they may get more benefits from methyl folate, a natural form of folate.
  • Dose- Pregnant women should take in 400-800 mcg per day. Many prenatal vitamins contain folic acid, so it is recommended to read the label to avoid overconsumption.
  • Other additional nutrients- Most of the best folic acid tablets also contain additional nutrients that are beneficial for pregnancy including:

Vitamin D: Supports bone health

Iron: Prevents anaemia and formation of haemoglobin

Vitamin B12: Helps folic acid support RBC production

DHA & Omega-3: Crucial for brain development

Iron: Prevents anaemia

  • Third-party testing and Certification- Choose products with third-party certifications, such as NSF, USP, or Consumer Lab, for purity and quality.
  • Form of supplement (folate tablet, gummies or capsules)- Some women prefer folate tablets for pregnancy or gummies for easy consumption. But they must not contain excess sugar.

SOME BEST FOLIC ACID TABLETS FOR PREGNANCY

  • Trimacare pregnancy supplement- Trimacare is the first and the only pregnancy multivitamin made in India specially designed to address trimester-wise care and bridge the nutritional needs of each different stage of pregnancy. Trimacare pregnancy supplement is formulated by experts following the guidelines set by the WHO and ICMR. Trimacare prenatal tablet contains 570mcg of folic acid in the form of L-methyl folate, which is recommended by leading gynaecologists in India. This is an advanced and 7 times more bioavailable form of folic acid. This formulation ensures absorption even for individuals with an MTHFR gene mutation.
  • Folvit – It is a leading folate tablet in India. It contains 5 mg of folic acid which prevents congenital disabilities and ensures the healthy development of baby’s brain and spinal cord.
  • Country life Folic acid tablets- They contain an adequate amount of folic acid which is highly beneficial for pregnant women.
  • Purosure Folic Acid tablet- This dietary supplement offers proper nutrient delivery to pregnant women. It also supports the proper functioning and development of the foetus.
  • Thorne Basic Prenatal- It contains methyl folate rather than synthetic folate. It is free from artificial fragrances.
  • Solgar Folate 1000mcg (as met Folin)- This folate tablet contains methyl folate, making it ideal for women with MTHFR mutations. It is gluten-free and safe for consumption by vegetarian women.

How to take folic acid tablet for maximum benefit?

To achieve the maximum benefits of folic acid for pregnancy, follow these tips-

  • Take folate tablets for pregnancy with food to enhance absorption.
  • Do not miss any dose. Maintain consistency.
  • If you have a problem swallowing pills, you can take chewable or liquid forms.
  • Always consult a doctor to ensure you are taking the right doses.

Conclusion-

Choosing the best folic acid tablets is very important in pregnancy. Always make sure that you are picking high-quality folate tablets for pregnancy that will give you the right dosage along with the other additional nutrients.

Taking the right amount of folic acid for pregnancy gives your baby a healthy start in life.

FAQs

  1. How early should I take folic acid for pregnancy?

Start taking folic acid for pregnancy at least one month before you conceive and throughout the first trimester.

  1. What happens if I do not take enough folic acid during the pregnancy phase?

A lack of folic acid during pregnancy increases the risk of neural tube defects, anaemia, and other complications both for the mother and the baby.

  1. Can I obtain sufficient folic acid just from food?

While a rich diet in folate contains green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, and legumes, meeting the essential daily amount through diet alone is not possible. That’s why doctors recommend folate tablets.

  1. What is the difference between folate and folic acid?

Folic acid is the synthetic form that can be found in supplements whereas folate is the natural form that is found in foods. Some supplements may contain methyl folate, the bioavailable form which is easier to absorb.

 

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