Folic acid, better known a folate, is Vitamin B9. This kind of vitamin is replete in green leafy vegetables like spinach, grains and orange juice. Several studies encourage the daily dosage of folic acid in a mild concentration of 400 mg at least month before conception and throughout the early stages of pregnancy. This significantly reduces the newborns’ risk of birth defects, especially neural tube defects. This is regarded as one of the most severe birth defects which damage the brain and spinal cord. Few studies have also revealed that the adequate presence of this significant drug in the body of an expecting mom alleviates the child’s risk of other severe disorders like cleft palate, cleft lip and cardiovascular disorders.  

In addition, folate is requisite for the production of red blood cells in both the unborn child and mother so as to avoid the risk of anemia. The medicine has also shown results at the repair of DNA which is the essential building block of our life. It also evades the dangers of preeclampsia, a complicated disorder which threatens the lives of both the mother and child. It is essential to know the correct dosage of folic acid from a renowned health care expert so as to maintain a healthy pregnancy.