Folic acid is a water-soluble vitamin B. It is generally recommended to take it three months before pregnancy and three months after pregnancy. However, some people have found that they gain weight after taking folic acid. Why is that? Does taking folic acid cause weight gain?
Does taking folic acid cause weight gain?
No, it does not.
Folic acid is a water-soluble vitamin B. The daily recommended intake is only 400-800 milligrams, which is very low in calories. Weight gain is caused by excessive calorie intake or slow metabolism, resulting in low basal metabolic rate. Therefore, weight gain has nothing to do with taking folic acid.
Why do some people gain weight after taking folic acid?
If weight gain occurs after taking folic acid, it could be due to the following factors:
Eating too well
After preparing for pregnancy, in addition to supplementing folic acid, many people start to improve their diet and nourish their bodies. If you eat a lot of rich and fatty foods, it could lead to excess nutrition and weight gain. It is recommended to have a balanced diet with a proper mix of meat and vegetables and avoid excessive oily foods to prevent weight gain.
Lack of exercise
Many people spend their days sitting in offices and commute by bus, subway, or car, with little opportunity for exercise. If you eat and then remain inactive, it is natural to gain weight.
What should be noted when taking folic acid tablets?
1. Follow the doctor's instructions.
The total intake of folic acid during the pre-pregnancy period should be controlled at around 400-600 milligrams, not exceeding 1 milligram. Taking too much can cause toxicity.
2. Do not take it with incompatible medications.
Folic acid should not be taken with aspirin, gastric medication, vitamin C, antibiotics, etc.
3. It is generally recommended to take folic acid tablets after meals.
4. Men should take folic acid until the woman becomes pregnant. Women must take it during the first three months of pregnancy, and then continue based on individual circumstances until the end of breastfeeding. During this period, folic acid primarily prevents congenital heart disease and other physical deformities, prevents postpartum anemia, and improves the quality of breast milk, among other benefits.
