The first three months of pregnancy are a critical period for baby development, especially the development of the neural tube in the first few weeks of conception. If folic acid is supplemented in a timely manner, it can promote the closure of the neural tube and reduce the occurrence of spina bifida. However, the loss rate of folic acid in processed foods can reach 50% to 90%, making it very difficult to obtain sufficient folic acid from diet alone. Therefore, it is recommended to supplement 400 micrograms of folic acid daily before and during the first three months of pregnancy to effectively prevent the occurrence of neural tube defects in newborns. In addition, it is advisable to consume foods rich in folic acid before and during pregnancy:
1. Vegetables:
Spinach, lettuce, carrots, cauliflower, kelp, rape, bok choy, mushrooms, etc.
2. Fruits:
Grapes, oranges, cherries, bananas, strawberries, peaches, bayberries, pomegranates, kiwis, jujubes, pears, etc.
3. Animal Products:
Animal liver, kidneys, poultry, and eggs, such as beef, lamb, pork liver, chicken, etc.
4. Legumes and Nuts:
Walnuts, cashews, chestnuts, almonds, pine nuts, etc.
5. Grains:
Barley, rice bran, wheat germ, brown rice, etc.
