Folic Acid & Pregnancy: Essential for Brain Development & Lifelong HealthFolic acid is a critical B vitamin that plays a key role in brain function, nervous system health, and fetal development. It is particularly important for women who are pregnant or planning to conceive, as it helps prevent neural tube defects (NTDs) such as spina bifida and anencephaly.
At Safe Haven Chiropractic, we educate and support families in optimizing their prenatal health through proper nutrition, whole-food supplements, and chiropractic care.
🌿 The Importance of Folic Acid in PregnancyFolic acid is essential for:
✅ Preventing Neural Tube Defects (NTDs) – Supports the proper development of the brain and spinal cord
✅ Supporting DNA & Cell Growth – Crucial for fetal development in early pregnancy
✅ Reducing Pregnancy Complications – Helps lower the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight
✅ Promoting Heart & Circulatory Health – Plays a role in preventing congenital heart defects
📍 Fact: The most critical period for folic acid intake is before conception and in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, as this is when the neural tube is forming.
🔹 MTHFR Gene Variants & Folic AcidYou may have heard that some people with an MTHFR gene variant (C677T or A1298C) cannot process folic acid properly. However, research shows that:
🔹 People with MTHFR variants can still process folic acid—though at slightly lower levels
🔹 Folic acid is the ONLY form proven to prevent neural tube defects
🔹 Taking 400 mcg of folic acid daily significantly increases blood folate levels, regardless of MTHFR status
📍 Takeaway: Even if you have an MTHFR variant, folic acid is still the best choice for neural tube defect prevention.
👉 For added peace of mind, individuals with the MTHFR gene mutation may benefit from a methylated B-complex supplement to support optimal vitamin uptake and ensure proper absorption.
🔹 Whole Food Nutrition vs. Synthetic SupplementsWhile folic acid is essential, we recommend a whole-food, natural supplement over synthetic options whenever possible.
✅ Natural folate sources:
✔️ Leafy greens (spinach, kale, romaine)
✔️ Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons)
✔️ Legumes (lentils, chickpeas, black beans)
✔️ Whole grains (quinoa, brown rice)
📍 Tip: Since cooking can destroy natural folate, we recommend incorporating raw or lightly steamed greens into your diet.
For additional support, we offer whole-food-based prenatal supplements that contain bioavailable folate, ensuring maximum absorption.
🔹 Who Should Take Extra Folic Acid?While all women of childbearing age should aim for 400 mcg of folic acid daily, some may need higher doses (1 mg – 4 mg daily) if they have:
✔️ A previous pregnancy affected by NTDs
✔️ A family history of neural tube defects
✔️ Diabetes or epilepsy
✔️ Certain genetic variations (MTHFR mutation)
📍 Consult with your doctor to determine your specific needs.
🌿 The Role of Chiropractic Care in PregnancyAt Safe Haven Chiropractic, we believe in a comprehensive approach to prenatal health, combining nutrition, movement, and holistic wellness.
Chiropractic Benefits for Pregnancy & Fetal Development:✅ Balances the nervous system for optimal function
✅ Supports circulation & nutrient delivery to baby
✅ Helps with spinal alignment & pelvic balance
✅ Reduces pregnancy discomfort and improves mobility
📍 A well-aligned spine promotes better brain-body communication, ensuring both mom and baby are functioning at their best.
🔹 Take Charge of Your Prenatal HealthFolic acid is a simple yet powerful nutrient that plays a life-changing role in pregnancy and long-term health. Whether you’re planning to conceive, currently pregnant, or looking for postnatal support, we are here to guide you.
📍 Next Steps:
✅ Incorporate folate-rich foods into your diet
✅ Choose a high-quality, whole-food prenatal supplement
✅ Consider a methylated B-complex for added vitamin support
✅ Stay proactive with chiropractic care for optimal pregnancy wellness
📅 Schedule a consultation today to support your healthiest pregnancy journey!
At Safe Haven Chiropractic, we educate and support families in optimizing their prenatal health through proper nutrition, whole-food supplements, and chiropractic care.
🌿 The Importance of Folic Acid in PregnancyFolic acid is essential for:
✅ Preventing Neural Tube Defects (NTDs) – Supports the proper development of the brain and spinal cord
✅ Supporting DNA & Cell Growth – Crucial for fetal development in early pregnancy
✅ Reducing Pregnancy Complications – Helps lower the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight
✅ Promoting Heart & Circulatory Health – Plays a role in preventing congenital heart defects
📍 Fact: The most critical period for folic acid intake is before conception and in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, as this is when the neural tube is forming.
🔹 MTHFR Gene Variants & Folic AcidYou may have heard that some people with an MTHFR gene variant (C677T or A1298C) cannot process folic acid properly. However, research shows that:
🔹 People with MTHFR variants can still process folic acid—though at slightly lower levels
🔹 Folic acid is the ONLY form proven to prevent neural tube defects
🔹 Taking 400 mcg of folic acid daily significantly increases blood folate levels, regardless of MTHFR status
📍 Takeaway: Even if you have an MTHFR variant, folic acid is still the best choice for neural tube defect prevention.
👉 For added peace of mind, individuals with the MTHFR gene mutation may benefit from a methylated B-complex supplement to support optimal vitamin uptake and ensure proper absorption.
🔹 Whole Food Nutrition vs. Synthetic SupplementsWhile folic acid is essential, we recommend a whole-food, natural supplement over synthetic options whenever possible.
✅ Natural folate sources:
✔️ Leafy greens (spinach, kale, romaine)
✔️ Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons)
✔️ Legumes (lentils, chickpeas, black beans)
✔️ Whole grains (quinoa, brown rice)
📍 Tip: Since cooking can destroy natural folate, we recommend incorporating raw or lightly steamed greens into your diet.
For additional support, we offer whole-food-based prenatal supplements that contain bioavailable folate, ensuring maximum absorption.
🔹 Who Should Take Extra Folic Acid?While all women of childbearing age should aim for 400 mcg of folic acid daily, some may need higher doses (1 mg – 4 mg daily) if they have:
✔️ A previous pregnancy affected by NTDs
✔️ A family history of neural tube defects
✔️ Diabetes or epilepsy
✔️ Certain genetic variations (MTHFR mutation)
📍 Consult with your doctor to determine your specific needs.
🌿 The Role of Chiropractic Care in PregnancyAt Safe Haven Chiropractic, we believe in a comprehensive approach to prenatal health, combining nutrition, movement, and holistic wellness.
Chiropractic Benefits for Pregnancy & Fetal Development:✅ Balances the nervous system for optimal function
✅ Supports circulation & nutrient delivery to baby
✅ Helps with spinal alignment & pelvic balance
✅ Reduces pregnancy discomfort and improves mobility
📍 A well-aligned spine promotes better brain-body communication, ensuring both mom and baby are functioning at their best.
🔹 Take Charge of Your Prenatal HealthFolic acid is a simple yet powerful nutrient that plays a life-changing role in pregnancy and long-term health. Whether you’re planning to conceive, currently pregnant, or looking for postnatal support, we are here to guide you.
📍 Next Steps:
✅ Incorporate folate-rich foods into your diet
✅ Choose a high-quality, whole-food prenatal supplement
✅ Consider a methylated B-complex for added vitamin support
✅ Stay proactive with chiropractic care for optimal pregnancy wellness
📅 Schedule a consultation today to support your healthiest pregnancy journey!
