If you’re pregnant or trying to get pregnant, you’re probably familiar with folic acid benefits already. If not—read this and go out and get some immediately! Folic acid (vitamin B9) helps our bodies regenerate new cells for healthy hair, skin, nails and much more. It’s recommended that all women of childbearing age take 400 mcg per day. Folic acid is particularly important during pregnancy because it can reduce your baby’s odds of having major brain or spinal defects by up to 70%.
“Women in the United States are recommended to take prenatal vitamins if they expect to become pregnant and during pregnancy. In addition, many foods, especially grains, are fortified with folic acid in the United States,” advises Dr. Richard Frye, director of Autism Research at Arkansas Children’s Hospital. So for Latina moms and moms-to-be, here are 10 reasons why folic acid needs your attention.
1. Folic acid and autism.
Studies have shown that taking a folate supplement starting four weeks before conception and throughout pregnancy can reduce the risk for your child developing autism.
Read Related: 20 Ways to Make Your Kid’s Life Better Even Before He/She is Born
