In order for the baby to be born healthy and strong, all doctors recommend that future parents still plan to conceive a child. In such a situation, specialists have time to prepare future parents for the upcoming event, as well as improve their health. For this, doctors can use prescribe vitamins, including folic acid.

Ovulation calculator

Cycle duration

Duration of menstruation

• Menstruation
• Ovulation
• High probability of conception

Enter the first day of your last menstrual period

Ovulation occurs 14 days before the start of the menstrual cycle (with a 28-day cycle - on the 14th day). Deviation from the average value occurs frequently, so the calculation is approximate.

Also, together with the calendar method, you can measure basal temperature, examine cervical mucus, use special tests or mini-microscopes, take tests for FSH, LH, estrogens and progesterone.

You can definitely determine the day of ovulation using folliculometry (ultrasound).

Sources:

1. Losos, Jonathan B.; Raven, Peter H.; Johnson, George B.; Singer, Susan R. Biology. New York: McGraw-Hill. pp. 1207-1209.
2. Campbell N. A., Reece J. B., Urry L. A. e. a. Biology. 9th ed. - Benjamin Cummings, 2011. - p. 1263
3. Tkachenko B. I., Brin V. B., Zakharov Yu. M., Nedospasov V. O., Pyatin V. F. Human physiology. Compendium / Ed. B. I. Tkachenko. - M.: GEOTAR-Media, 2009. - 496 p.
4. https://ru.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ovulation

Why is it necessary?

The value of folic acid for the body is obvious. It is prescribed to almost all women when planning pregnancy. It’s worth noting right away that, as with any rule, there are a number of exceptions. However, there are practically none for prescribing folic acid.

Optimal intake of folic acid in the body should be daily. Only in this situation can a positive and lasting result be achieved. This regular intake helps improve functioning. immune system women.

Pregnancy is a special period when immunity levels deteriorate. That is why the risk of infection with various infections in pregnant women is quite high. Insufficient intake various vitamins and microelements, including folic acid, significantly impairs the functioning of the immune system. This leads to the fact that both the expectant mother and her baby can easily get sick.

Adequate intake of folic acid normalizes the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. To some extent, this reduces the likelihood of various toxic infections and food poisoning.

The most important role of folic acid and its metabolites in the female body is protection from various chromosomal and gene mutations. Such pathologies are extremely dangerous, as they can lead to the formation of various anomalies and pronounced defects in the structure of the baby’s internal organs. Only regular intake of folic acid supplements will help to significantly reduce the risk of their occurrence.

Scientists believe that this substance also has a positive effect on protein metabolism. It improves the speed of various biological reactions that occur in the body. This leads to the fact that internal organs begin to function fully.

This substance is also involved in hematopoiesis. Blood is the main nutrient medium for all cells of the body. It promotes the delivery of all substances necessary for the growth and development of the baby, as well as oxygen. To ensure full functions, it is necessary that a sufficient amount of all formed elements be present in the blood.

Folic acid also has a beneficial effect on blood vessels. Scientists note that Regular use of this substance may slow down the formation atherosclerotic plaques.

Insufficient folic acid intake can cause women to develop anemia.

This pathological condition characterized by a significant change in the number of red blood cells and hemoglobin. In such a situation, the course of pregnancy may be complicated by the development of multiple pathologies. To compensate for the violations that have arisen, it will be necessary to prescribe a whole range of different medications.

Women who do not receive enough folic acid during pregnancy planning are in the zone increased risk on their development various violations in the functioning of the nervous system. Often such patients complain to their doctors about the feeling of “crawling goosebumps” on their skin. Hands and feet become cold to the touch, and a constant feeling of chilliness appears.

Folic acid supplements are often prescribed to women who have problems conceiving. Regular intake of this substance into the body is somewhat improves reproductive function. It is also necessary for the further development of the fetus in the mother’s womb - from its implantation to the wall of the uterus until birth.

Regular intake of folic acid is necessary not only for the expectant mother, but also for her baby. This helps reduce the likelihood of him developing various birth defects and abnormalities of the brain and nervous system organs. The risk of giving birth to babies with various genetic mutations is also significantly reduced when the expectant mother regularly takes folic acid supplements.

Many experts believe that timely use of these drugs helps reduce the unfavorable outcome of pregnancy - its “fading”. This pathology occurs in the first half of intrauterine development of the fetus. In this case, its further development is impossible. In such a situation, unfortunately, it is necessary to terminate the pregnancy.

Some scientists note that regular intake of folic acid before pregnancy helps reduce the likelihood of developing such pathologies in babies as “ cleft lip" and "cleft palate". Both of these diseases require mandatory medical intervention and carrying out treatment. Afterwards the child will need long period rehabilitation.

A course of folic acid intake before pregnancy is very important. It contributes to the fact that in the first trimester, organogenesis (education and formation of the internal organs of the fetus) will occur fully.

It is especially important how the child's neural tube is formed. If at this stage of his intrauterine development any pathologies arise, this will contribute to the further development of various neurological disorders in the baby. They will appear after childbirth.

Dosage

Scientists believe that for a man and woman who are preparing to become parents, the optimal dosage of folic acid is 400 mcg per day. However, there are exceptions to the rules. If a woman has any diseases of the gastrointestinal tract or severe pathologies of the liver and kidneys, then the dose of this substance can be adjusted. In this case, the doctor calculates the individual need for folic acid.

Drugs

To prevent various folate deficiency conditions and in preparation for pregnancy, medications containing folic acid in tablets are used. Each of these drugs must be accompanied by instructions for use. It indicates daily dose, and also side effects and symptoms of overdose.

Most famous drug, which is widely used in medical practice, that’s what it’s called - "Folic acid". It is available in 1 mg tablets. One package contains 50 tablets. The course of treatment and dosage is determined individually by the attending physician.

"Folacin"

This medicine is also available in tablets. The folic acid content in it is already higher – 5 mg. Typically written out this medicine women with any diseases or folate deficiency conditions. It is worth noting that you should not use it yourself. The dosage of Folacin should be selected for the woman by a therapist.

It must be said that this drug can be prescribed simultaneously to both men and women. This happens especially often when if a couple is purposefully preparing for the birth and conception of a baby.

Infertility is another pathology for which this drug can be prescribed.

"Folio"

This drug is already a combination drug. It contains both folic acid and iodine. This combination is very convenient to take.

The dosages of this drug vary. This makes taking the medication more convenient. It can be prescribed to both women and men. If one of the future parents has problems with the thyroid gland, then in this case, before using this product, you should definitely consult with a specialist.

Vitamin complexes

In order to prevent various folate deficiency conditions, doctors can prescribe a woman multivitamins with folic acid. In addition to folates, such complexes also contain other biological active substances and microelements.

Reviews from women who were preparing to conceive babies indicate that they quite often resorted to using just such means. Some fairly common drugs include "Vitrum", "Elevit" and "Prenatal Forte".

Aids

In addition to isolated folic acid supplementation, to the expectant mother Other medications may be prescribed that are no less important at the pregnancy planning stage. Women with various pathologies reproductive organs or having difficulty conceiving, doctors may prescribe course intake of vitamin E.

This remedy has a positive effect on the functioning of all female genital organs. A course of vitamin E helps normalize menstrual cycle, and also has a beneficial effect on the condition of the skin, hair and nails.

In this case, it is very important to choose optimal dosage. It is selected taking into account the woman’s initial condition, as well as a mandatory assessment by the doctor of whether she has concomitant diseases. One of the commonly prescribed remedies is "Aevit". This drug is well tolerated and practically does not cause allergic reactions.

There are quite a few iodine-deficient regions in our country. In these places, people suffer from endemic goiter and other pathologies thyroid gland very high.

Women living in such iodine-deficient regions should be sure to additionally enrich their daily diet foods that contain iodine.

For additional prevention of the development of various thyroid diseases, doctors recommend that they use iodine-containing medications.

One of these drugs is "Iodomarin". It is important to note that it may not be prescribed to everyone. It is very important to consult with your doctor before use. Women with thyroid diseases cannot always use iodine-containing products, but only for certain medical reasons.

Admission course

Folic acid may be prescribed for use on long time. In some cases, doctors recommend drinking it for months. The scheme of such preventive treatment is strictly individual. In most cases, folic acid supplements are prescribed 2.5-3 months before the planned conception of the baby.

The frequency of use is also determined by the doctor. In most cases, folic acid preparations are prescribed to be taken 1-2 times a day. In some situations, it is allowed to use these drugs three times a day.

How to take it correctly?

Main principle use of folic acid supplements – regularity. It is important to remember that this vitamin cannot accumulate in the body. It is constantly spent to provide for his needs.

The high need for it determines that You should consume folic acid regularly. To remember to take your daily dose, you should use a special calendar. In it, you can cross out the dates of taking the drug or make notes in any convenient way.

Before using the drug, the doctor must calculate the required dosage that is required for a particular patient. If a woman in a previous birth gave birth to babies with chromosomal pathologies, then in such a situation the dose of folic acid during a real pregnancy can be doubled.

It is important to remember that the absorption of folic acid is affected by various medicinal substances. Thus, it is undesirable to use it with certain types of antibiotics, cytostatic agents, anticonvulsants and painkillers, as well as some hormonal medications. They can lead to decreased absorption of folic acid in the female body.

The use of such medications must be discussed with your doctor.

Overdose

The peculiarity of the metabolism of folic acid in the body ensures that the risk of oversaturation is minimal. High concentration substances in the blood leads to the fact that it begins to be actively excreted along with urine. This situation reduces the risk of overdose to almost zero.

Experts believe that in order for the body to become oversaturated with folic acid, it must be drunk more than 40 tablets. A woman who is in a sober mind will never do this. This largely confirms that it is almost impossible to contribute to an overdose of this substance in a normal situation.

However, if a woman has any kidney or urinary tract diseases, and she consumes a lot of folic acid, this can lead to a short-term excess of the level of this substance in the blood.

In this situation, she will have various adverse symptoms. An overdose may be accompanied by pain in the abdomen, a feeling of “fullness,” and increasing anxiety. The woman may experience nausea. In some situations, even vomiting is possible. In this case it is required immediate appeal see a doctor for medical help.

Special diet

There is a myth that folic acid is synthesized in sufficient quantities by intestinal microflora. This is not entirely true. Indeed, a small amount of folic acid is formed in it. However, this concentration is not enough to meet all the body's needs.

If a woman’s diet is irrational and does not include a sufficient amount of folate, then this will inevitably lead to the development of folate deficiency in her. It can negatively affect the future intrauterine development of the baby. In order to avoid this, women planning to conceive a baby need to carefully monitor their diet.

It is important to note that folic acid is not only found in medications. It is also present in some foods. Their regular use helps to normalize the condition of the female body.

Diet selection is carried out by the attending physician.

It is very important for a woman planning to become a mother to remember that when consuming foods rich in folic acid, It is very important to follow the dosage of folic-containing medications. In order to eliminate even the minimal risk of overdose, you should definitely visit a doctor before taking folic acid tablets. The doctor will select the optimal dosage required in each specific situation.

Quite a lot of folic acid is contained in nuts. Almonds and walnuts are excellent for preventing folate deficiency conditions. When using them, it is very important to remember the norm. Nuts are very nutritious and high in calories. Use them in large quantities It’s not worth it, as they can cause weight gain.

Folic acid compounds can also be found in various organ meats as well as animal products. Women who want to maintain an optimal weight should not choose too fatty varieties meat. Lenten is best beef or veal, various game and chicken, as well as liver. These products also contain the whole complex various vitamins and vital amino acids necessary for the full functioning of the body.

Folic acid is also found in various types of fish. Marine inhabitants contain slightly more of this substance than river inhabitants. Fish is an excellent source of various vitamins that the female body needs at the stage of planning a baby. The undoubted advantage of such food products is their easy digestibility and relatively low calorie content.

Women who are vegetarians can get folic acid from plant food.

This substance is also found in various cereal crops. Folic acid is present in buckwheat, oatmeal, and also in rice. Regular consumption of various cereals will not only be an excellent addition to the daily menu, but will also help normalize metabolism and vitamins.

Not only cereal products can be used as a side dish. Folic acid can also be found in leafy greens. Regular consumption of fresh parsley, dill and cilantro will help improve your health and give the body the necessary vitamin boost. You can eat leafy greens either as an ingredient in a salad or on their own.

Folic acid compounds can also be found in various fruits. In order for the body to receive a diverse complex of vitamins and microelements, you should eat different fruits. Women who are allergic to specific fruits You should be very attentive to your diet and exclude allergens from the menu.

Folic acid is found in moderate amounts in various fermented milk products and eggs. These products also contain the necessary proteins necessary for the full functioning of the female body. They should be consumed at least 1-2 servings per day.

Doctors advise to be sure to include fresh vegetable salads in your menu and eat leafy greens. In this form, folic acid is best absorbed by the body. High temperature When cooked, it leads to partial destruction of this important vitamin. In a great way cooking fish or meat products will use a double boiler.

Varied rational nutrition, containing a sufficient amount of fruits, vegetables and protein foods will guarantee that the body provides the folic acid it needs.

Dr. Komarovsky will tell you everything about planning pregnancy and taking folic acid in the next video.

• Planning a pregnancy
• Vitamins and nutrition

Not all vitamin complexes are extremely useful. Many drugs can lead to an overabundance of certain substances. Therefore, before using medications, you should consult a doctor for advice.

In recent years, the benefits and harms of its use have received special attention and will be presented in the article. You will also learn about ways to use it. Separately, it is necessary to mention the opinion of doctors regarding this remedy.

General description of the medication: composition

The drug "Folic acid" contains several components. It contains vitamin B9. The manufacturer can also add additional components, which usually do not have a significant effect on the human body.

The cost of the medication depends on the production and number of tablets. The dosage also matters, because one tablet can contain 400, 800 or 1000 mcg of active substance. Average cost The drug is in the range of up to one hundred rubles.

benefit and harm

There is still debate about the positive and negative effects of this substance. A few decades ago, the decision was made to fortify food with water-soluble folate.

Folic acid plays an important role in the human body. It is involved in the metabolism of amino acids and the synthesis of nucleic acids. This component is indispensable in the formation of new cells and hematopoiesis. Folic acid promotes normalization. The substance is also necessary for the immune and cardiac systems.

The benefits and harms of folic acid have been compared by scientists. The professors came to the conclusion that it can almost never cause harm. However, its excess still entails unpleasant consequences. Among them are problems such as the formation of kidney stones, tumors in the mammary glands, and so on.

Indications for use

In what cases is it necessary to take tablets with the trade name “Folic acid”? The benefits and harms for the patient must be previously assessed by a doctor. Therefore, in order not to encounter unpleasant reactions or to avoid getting an excess of the active ingredient, you need to consult a doctor. The instructions indicate that vitamin B9 is prescribed in case of its deficiency in the body. It may manifest itself with the following symptoms:

• megaloblastic anemia;
• leukopenia;
• chronic gastroenteritis;
• intestinal tuberculosis;
• anxiety and constant feeling fear;
• digestive problems;
• or hair loss and so on.

For women

Quite often, doctors prescribe drugs such as folic acid during pregnancy. The benefits and harms for women from its use are also controversial. Vitamin B9 is necessary for the normal development of the embryo. Without its use, there is a high probability of developing neural tube defects. The drug also has a beneficial effect on the formation of the entire body. It is important to take enough folic acid for the proper development of the fetal brain.

What then is the harm of the substance? The thing is that excess vitamin B9 negatively affects breast diseases. If a woman has a tumor in this place, then her condition may worsen greatly.

Contraindications to the use of the drug and adverse reactions

You already know what benefits and harms the drug “Folic acid” has for humans. If you take the medication as prescribed by a specialist in accordance with the indicated dosages, you will get an extremely positive effect. Vitamin B9 is never prescribed to patients with increased sensitivity to him. It is also worth paying attention to additional components, which may differ from individual manufacturers.

Among the adverse reactions, the instructions indicate allergies. It can be mild or severe: swelling, rash, itching, and so on. There is evidence that use of the drug caused fever in some people. If you have unpleasant symptoms after starting therapy, you should definitely consult a doctor.

Method of use

Before using the medication, be sure to read the instructions. Read the information about the benefits and harms of Folic Acid tablets. For men and non-pregnant women the drug is prescribed in a dose of 400 mcg. During pregnancy, the need for folic acid increases. Expectant mothers are advised to consume up to six hundred micrograms of folate.

For children, the medication is prescribed in a lower dosage. It all depends on the age and body weight of the child. The duration of therapy is also determined individually. The tablets should be taken orally with water. If possible, take the medication with meals.

What do doctors say?

Gynecologists claim that the benefits of taking the drug “Folic acid” are achieved, and they cannot cause harm during pregnancy. Doctors explain their statement as follows. During pregnancy, a woman's diet changes. Often, expectant mothers feel disgusted by foods that contain vitamin B9. These are meat, mushrooms, root vegetables, greens. This results in a lack of folic acid in the body. This is aggravated by the fact that the fetus needs this vitamin every day. Therefore, pregnant women are often prescribed the drug without additional examinations.

Older people need folic acid to maintain the functioning of the heart and blood vessels. Tablets are prescribed in courses with breaks. For children, the medication is prescribed much less frequently. For this there must be good reasons. Most children get the required amount of folic acid from food.

Let's sum it up

You have learned a lot about folic acid. Whether harm or benefit will be obtained from therapy depends on the situation and condition of the patient. If there is an excess of vitamin B9 in the body, then taking it can be dangerous. However, this situation occurs very rarely. Most patients are deficient in folic acid. Therefore, it is advisable to use it in the doses described above.

You can buy folic acid without a prescription at any pharmacy. If you are taking vitamin complexes at the same time, pay attention to whether the described component is there, so as not to provoke an excess of it in the body. I wish you good health and well-being!

This acid itself is biologically inactive and for medical purposes it is obtained artificially in the form of tablets or vitamin ampoules. It is found in sufficient quantities in fresh vegetables (spinach, beans, beets, tomatoes), meat, liver, eggs, etc.

The acid is converted by the body's cells into a biologically active form called tetrahydrofolate, which is contained in enzymes and thanks to which the human body produces amino acids.

Learn more about folic acid and the foods that the body gets some of it from. daily norm this vitamin is possible.

Purpose of folic acid

Taking folic acid is necessary for:

• normal functioning of blood cells;
• DNA synthesis;
• the process of formation of erythrocytes and normoblasts;
• treatment of macrocytic, megaloblastic, hyperchromic anemia;
• effective antimicrobial therapy;
• preventive treatment during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

This acid also promotes the formation of enzymes that have a preventive effect on the formation of tumors.

Instructions for use of folic acid

How and how much to take folic acid? On average, vitamin B9 must be taken orally for 30 days, 0.5 - 1 mg 1 to 3 times a day for adults, and for children from 25 - 200 mcg 1 time.

Folic acid release form

As a rule, this drug is produced in tablets or powder and is sold dosage of 1 mg, 25 or 50 pieces in one package. Conventional packaging is a polymer container or a contour cell box. This drug is also produced under the name “Folic acid 9 months” for pregnant women. One tablet contains 0.4 mg and is available in 30, 60 and 90 pieces.

Vitamin B9 is also available in ampoules, good for injections and hair masks.

Production is carried out by pharmaceutical factories different countries, as in pure form, and in combination with other drugs. Depending on this it fluctuates the price of this vitamin ranges from 15-20 rubles to 200 and above. So every consumer can find for himself a worthy alternative for a reasonable price.

Indications and contraindications for the use of folic acid

Why is folic acid prescribed? For the treatment of anemia caused by a lack of vitamin B9, as well as as part of complex therapy in the presence of leukopenia or anemia that has developed while taking medications and ionizing radiation.

Folic acid is no less effective in the treatment of tropical diarrhea sprue, intestinal tuberculosis and chronic gastroenteritis.

Almost always, vitamin tablets or injections are prescribed to pregnant and lactating women to avoid the development of hypovitaminosis, which is extremely dangerous for a growing baby.

Folic acid is sufficient safe drug, however, its long-term use is still not recommended - it reduces the concentration of cyanocobalamin (vitamin B12) in the body. Contraindications for use include kidney disease, individual intolerance and bronchial asthma.

Folic acid dosage: how to take it correctly?

U different groups population, the dosage of the drug varies. Thus, daily doses of folic acid in women, men and children vary depending on the needs of their bodies.

Folic acid for women

World medical research showed that practically Every 2nd woman has a deficiency of vitamin B9. This is especially pronounced among those who take hormonal contraceptives or abuse alcohol.

Folic acid is especially important for women when planning pregnancy, because it insufficient quantity in the mother's body can provoke a variety of congenital defects and pathologies in the fetus. The risk of miscarriage, premature birth and placental abruption increases greatly.

There is also a very high probability of a neural tube defect, the development of cerebral hernias, hydrocephalus, anencephaly and various spinal defects. The risk of having a child diagnosed with mental retardation or mental retardation. Pregnant women with a lack of vitamin B9 develop:

• feeling unwell;
• weakness;
• dizziness;
• vomit;
• diarrhea;
• hair loss;
• Anemia may develop.

That is why, long before the wonderful moment when a woman discovers two long-awaited stripes on the test, she needs to prepare to the maximum.

Already 100 days before planning a long-awaited pregnancy and during the entire period of bearing a baby, doctors recommend consuming 0.4 to 0.8 mg of this acid every day. If this is not the first pregnancy and developmental pathologies are detected in the previous baby, the dosage of folic acid should be increased to 4 mg.

Read about the rules for taking folic acid during pregnancy.

Folic acid for men

Vitamin B9, which is responsible for the formation of new cells in the body of men affects sperm count. A lack of vitamin leads to a decrease in the quality and quantity of sperm, and sometimes even to infertility.

Also, a limited amount of vitamin B9 in the body can negatively affect the unborn child in the form of hereditary disorders - schizophrenia, epilepsy, Down syndrome. That's why, Men, like women, need to take folic acid before conceiving. within 100 days.

For teenage boys, folic acid is also necessary for the normal regulation of spermogenesis, as it is for adult men. With a lack of vitamin, boys grow much slower than their peers, their memory deteriorates, they become absent-minded, and their appetite disappears.

To obtain the required amount of vitamin you need to eat foods rich in its content, namely fresh vegetables, offal, fish, cottage cheese, cheese. Also, additional use would not be amiss: to prevent deficiency, the dosage for men is only one tablet of folic acid per day (1 mg), and for treatment, 2 to 5 tablets are prescribed.

Folic acid for children

For children's bodies vitamin B9 is especially needed during active growth from development in the womb to 3 years of age. In the first months after birth, folic acid is necessary for the growth of all organs and systems.

Children under one year old who are breastfed are not required additional dose folic acid, provided it is balanced and good nutrition moms.

Depending on the age of the child, vitamin B9 is prescribed in the following quantities per day:

• from 0 to 6 months – 25 mcg
• from 6 to 12 months – 35 mcg
• from 1 to 3 years – 50 mcg
• from 3 to 6 years – 75 mcg
• from 6 to 10 – 100 mcg
• from 10 to 14 – 150 mcg
• from fourteen - 200 mcg.

One tablet contains 1 mg (1000 μg) of the vitamin, so for ease of use, parents are advised to dilute the tablet in water and measure the required amount using a measuring syringe.

Side effects and overdose of folic acid

To the side effects from long-term use of this vitamin include:

• displacement of vitamin B12;
• development pernicious anemia;
• rash, itchy skin, asthma attack (allergic reaction);
• enlargement of the epithelium in the renal tubules.

An overdose of folic acid contributes to insomnia, cramps, excessive excitability, and can also cause diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, and abdominal pain. In such a situation, you should contact your doctor. In the future, you may need to reduce your dose of folic acid or temporarily stop taking it altogether.

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About the benefits folic acid(vitamin B 9) people have known for a long time, but only in the last 10 years have doctors begun to actively promote preventive courses of taking folic acid for pregnant women and those suffering from iron deficiency anemia.

Folic acid takes part in metabolism, in the production of DNA, and plays an important role in the synthesis immune cells blood, normalizes the function of the digestive tract. Folic acid is essential for pregnant women as it plays an important role in the development of the fetal neural tube. At normal level Vitamin B 9 significantly reduces the likelihood of malformations in the fetus. In addition, it is necessary for normal height and development of the placenta.

History of discovery

In 1926, microbiologist V. Efremov discovered in pregnant women specific form anemia - megaloblastic anemia. At that time, vitaminology was developing rapidly, many scientists conducted research in this area of ​​knowledge. Most of all, attention was paid to nutritional factor. Efremov accurately determined the presence of a certain anti-anemic factor in the liver tissue - significant improvements were observed in patients who received liver products in food.

In 1932, the British physician Wills, who worked for many years in India, found that some pregnant women suffering from megaloblastic anemia did not experience improvement when consuming a purified extract of liver cells. However, these women recovered completely after consuming the crude extract. From this, Wheels concluded that during the purification, some kind of important factor, causing recovery. This substance was soon isolated and given the name Wheels factor. Later it was called vitamin M. In 1941, it was found that spinach and parsley leaves are rich in this substance - so it was renamed folic acid (translated from the Latin folium - leaf).

Mechanism of action

Once in the body, vitamin B 9 is converted into tetrahydrofolate, which serves as a component of many enzymes and also participates in a number of biochemical reactions, such as protein metabolism. As a result, the body synthesizes amino acids, epinephrine and some other factors necessary for the formation of proteins. Also, vitamin B 9 has an effect similar to estrogens - it determines the proper development of a woman’s reproductive system.

It is well known that the first and the most important stage The division of any cell is the division of the DNA molecule. It is in the process of DNA replication that vitamin B 9 takes an active part. In addition, it plays an important role in the synthesis of RNA, amino acids, and improves iron absorption. Therefore, a lack of folic acid is primarily dangerous for rapidly dividing cells.

Your mood also depends on your folic acid level. It takes part in the metabolism of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and adrenaline, which have a significant impact on the functioning of the nervous system.

Folic acid stimulates appetite and takes part in excretion hydrochloric acid in the stomach.

Folic acid requirement

The human liver usually contains some amount of folacin, which can prevent hypovitaminosis for 3-6 months. The body of an adult needs 0.4 mg of folic acid per day, during pregnancy and lactation - 0.4-0.6 mg, a child of 1 year of life - 0.04-0.06 mg. When the intestinal flora is normal, vitamin B 9 can be produced endogenously.

Folic acid and pregnancy

Maintaining normal folic acid levels daily in the months before pregnancy helps reduce the risk of congenital malformations. Clinical studies have demonstrated that 80% of malformations can be prevented if a woman begins to compensate for the deficiency of vitamin B 9 even before pregnancy.

In the Russian Federation, it is generally accepted that the requirement of pregnant women without symptoms of deficiency of this micronutrient is 0.4 mg per day. During breastfeeding, the requirement is 0.6 mg per day.

During pregnancy, a woman's body uses much more folic acid than before pregnancy. Vitamin B 9 is not stored in reserve, so it is important to get it daily from external sources. It is very important to support required level folic acid in the first trimester, when the fetal nervous system develops.

The most important role of vitamin B 9 for the fetus is the development of the neural tube. It also takes part in the renewal and mitosis of cells in the mother’s body, in particular the cells of internal organs, which must be constantly renewed.

Already in the second week of pregnancy, the embryo's brain begins to actively develop. It is at this time that even a short-term deficiency of vitamin B 9 threatens with serious, often irreparable consequences. Since this micronutrient is necessary in the process of mitosis, which is extremely important for rapidly dividing and developing cells (these primarily include neurons and other cells nerve tissue), then its deficiency primarily affects the developing nervous system.

Folic acid is involved in the production of basic blood cells (red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets), which is important for both the mother and the fetus.

For the normal course of pregnancy, maintaining the health of the woman and the fetus, doctors recommend starting to take folic acid in the form of tablets 2-3 months before the planned pregnancy, and continue until childbirth. When consuming vitamin B 9, you must adhere to the doses recommended by your doctor, since an excess of this micronutrient is just as dangerous as its deficiency.

Vitamin B 9 is the only micronutrient whose role during pregnancy is not underestimated even by opponents of synthetic vitamin preparations and medications in general. Therefore, even if you avoid any medications during pregnancy, do not refuse a course of vitamin B 9, at least for preventive purposes - this will save you and your child from a number of unjustified risks. Although sometimes you should compare the dosage prescribed by your doctor with the body's needs for folic acid.

Folic acid deficiency and its consequences

At heat treatment food, it is possible to lose up to 90% of vitamin B9, which is part of raw foods. For example, when frying meat, up to 95% of vitamin B9 is destroyed, when cooking meat and products plant origin- from 70 to 90%, when boiling eggs - about half.

Vitamin B9 deficiency can develop due to its low content in the diet, disturbances in the absorption of micronutrients in the intestines, or when the need for a given substance increases (pregnancy, lactation).

Common Cause this hypovitaminosis– regular consumption of alcoholic beverages.

Lack of folic acid is the most common symptom in pregnant women and children in the first year of life. Vitamin B 9 deficiency in the fetus develops as a result of its lack in the mother's body, and in infants - due to its insufficient content in breast milk.

Deficiency of folic acid in the body of a pregnant woman can serve as a factor in the whole a number of serious violations:

• miscarriage;
• congenital malformations;
• mental retardation;
• neural tube malformation;
• spina bifida (in the fetus);
• malformations of the circulatory system;
• cleft lip or cleft palate;
• anemia.

Symptoms of vitamin B9 deficiency may take 8-30 days to appear, depending on your diet. The first symptoms of this hypovitaminosis are loss of strength, nervousness and poor appetite. We should not forget about replenishing the deficiency of vitamin B 9 during breastfeeding, since the body maintains the required level of this vitamin in milk even to your own detriment. Therefore, when there is a lack of folic acid in the diet of a nursing mother, the above symptoms often occur, which increase postpartum depression.

Lack of vitamin B 9 is not always accompanied by obvious symptoms. However, according to research results, a lack of folic acid is present in 20-100% of people, depending on where they live. This is one of the most common hypovitaminosis. However, even in the absence of certain clinical symptoms, the likelihood of heart attack and stroke increases significantly, and immunity decreases.

Folic acid deficiency often leads to the development of pernicious anemia in premature infants. An increase in the need for vitamin B 9 occurs in a number of pathologies: leukemia, hemolytic anemia, chronic infectious diseases, carcinomatosis.

First of all, with a lack of vitamin B 9, megaloblastic anemia develops. With this type of anemia, not only the content of red blood cells in the blood decreases, but their activity is also disrupted, since most of them do not mature in the bone marrow. If the lack of folic acid is not compensated for, symptoms such as decreased appetite, nervousness, and loss of strength develop. Later vomiting, diarrhea, and alopecia appear. Morphological abnormalities of the skin and the appearance of ulcers in the oral cavity and pharynx are possible. If treatment is not started promptly, megaloblastic anemia can lead to death.

In recent years there have been a number of clinical trials, as a result of which it was found that vitamin B9 deficiency, disrupting the metabolism of sulfur amino acids, leads to a retention of the amino acid homocysteine ​​in the blood. Homocysteine ​​has negative influence on the intima of blood vessels, which leads to the appearance of atherosclerotic plaques and increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Impaired absorption of vitamin B 9 can occur with stomach diseases, gastrectomy, when the body experiences a deficiency of antianemic factors (Castle factors) synthesized in the stomach. Folic acid can enter the blood only by combining with antianemic factors; accordingly, when they are deficient, the level of folic acid in the blood drops.

In addition to folic acid, Castle factor transports cyanocobalamin into the blood. Therefore, prolonged use of vitamin B 9 preparations in increased dosages can lead to a lack of cyanocobalamin.

Also, a lack of vitamin B 9 is observed in severe liver pathologies. It is in the liver that the vitamin is transformed into tetrahydrofolate, which takes part in biochemical reactions. Folic acid in its primary form is useless to the body.

If the body experiences a deficiency of vitamin B 9, the functioning of the hematopoietic system may be disrupted: red blood cells become immature, and defective cells that are not able to transport oxygen are released into the blood. This is one of the reasons for malformation of the nervous system in the fetus, since neurons cannot fully grow and develop under hypoxic conditions.

Together with red blood cells, the synthesis of leukocytes and platelets is disrupted, which can provoke a decrease in immunity and disrupt blood clotting. In pregnant women, vitamin B 9 deficiency may be accompanied by iron deficiency. This increases the risk for both mother and baby.

Vitamin B9 deficiency can develop due to a lack of vitamins in the diet, fasting, or following unbalanced diets for weight loss. However, the most common factor of vitamin B9 deficiency is dysbiosis. Dysbacteriosis develops as a result of prolonged, often uncontrolled use of antibiotic drugs, incl. without a doctor's prescription.

In the United States, there is a law according to which the manufacturer is required to add a certain amount of vitamin B 9 to flour in order to prevent deficiency of this substance among consumers. In the USA, the prophylactic dose of vitamin B 9 is twice as high as in the Russian Federation.

Foods containing folic acid

Vitamin B 9 is part of all tissues of humans, animals, plants and microorganisms. Human body unable to produce folic acid. Therefore, it is obtained from food or produced by the microflora of the colon. Therefore, if intestinal functions are impaired or dysbiosis, the production of vitamin B 9 may be insufficient. In such situations it is necessary additional source of this micronutrient.

Vitamin B 9 is found in large quantities in plant foods: spinach, onions, dill, parsley, beans, peas, buckwheat, oats, bran, bananas, walnut, grapefruit, dried apricots, melon, yeast, pumpkin, mushrooms, beets, turnips, etc.

Also a source of folic acid is meat and animal products: beef, lamb, pork, liver, kidneys, poultry, milk, eggs, trout, perch, cheese, etc.

A plate of cereal porridge with milk and a glass of fresh orange juice replenishes 50% daily requirement body in vitamin B 9.

Consumption of bifidobacteria stimulates the endogenous formation of folic acid in the intestine.

Vitamin B 9 decomposes quite quickly under the influence of sunlight and simply during prolonged storage of food, as well as during temperature treatment of products. Folic acid contained in plant foods is destroyed most quickly. Folic acid in meat is more stable.

Therefore, to preserve the vitamin in foods, it is recommended to consume raw foods. Vegetables are best consumed in the form of raw salads. It is best to add garden cabbage, parsley, dill, beet leaves, mint or dandelion to this salad. It is also useful to add young nettles to the salad. It is better to drink orange and tomato juices - they contain the most folic acid.

Among meat products, the liver contains the most folic acid. The liver can be lightly fried and boiled for a short time - in this case, the vitamin B 9 included in its composition is not destroyed.

Medicines containing folic acid

Folic acid tablets– the most convenient dosage form for dosing (one tablet contains 1 mg of the substance). In addition, today this is the most economical option. To completely compensate for a pregnant woman’s deficiency in vitamin B9, it is enough to take 1 tablet per day. However, given the prevalence of folic acid deficiency, which may not manifest itself externally, 2-3 months before pregnancy and in the first trimester, you can take 2-3 tablets per day. This dosage is recommended by doctors, since an overdose from such an amount of the drug is impossible, and the consequences of a lack of folic acid are extremely dangerous. In this situation, doctors resort to justified reinsurance.

Folic acid is available in the form of a drug Folacin. One tablet of the drug contains 5 mg of vitamin B9. This is much more than the daily norm even for a pregnant woman. Excess folic acid has neither positive nor negative effects, but is simply excreted from the body. 1 tablet Apo-Folika also contains 5 mg of vitamin B 9. Considering increased content substances in the tablet, Folacin and Apo-Folik are used only for acute and severe vitamin deficiency. For preventive purposes, these drugs are not recommended.

In one tablet of the drug Folio contains 0.4 mg of vitamin B 9 and 0.2 mg of iodine. The advantage of this dosage form the fact that it contains two micronutrients, so there is no need for additional use of iodine preparations. The dose of vitamin B 9 in one tablet is low, so it is recommended as prophylactic drug. Folio is not assigned when acute shortage or with an increased need for folic acid.

Vitamin B 9 is included in multivitamin preparations for pregnant women. Folic acid content per tablet Each drug is different:

• Materna – 1 mg;
• Elevit – 1 mg;
• Vitrum prenatal – 0.8 mg
• Vitrum prenatal forte – 0.8 mg
• Multi-tabs perinatal – 0.4 mg
• Pregnavit – 0.75 mg.

All complexes contain a prophylactic dose, so the dosage of vitamin B 9 should be calculated taking into account its content in the vitamin complex. With a normal level of folic acid in the body, there is no need for folic acid supplements if the pregnant woman is already taking any multivitamin complexes.

Vitamin B 9 is absorbed much better from medications than from foods.

Besides pharmaceuticals, folic acid can be obtained from dietary supplements.

Indications

Folic acid is indicated for the following conditions:

• folate deficiency anemia;
• anemia as a complication after gastrectomy;
• sprue (tropical diarrhea);
• chronic intestinal inflammation;
• intestinal tuberculosis;
• pregnancy;
• lactation period;
• vitamin B deficiency 9.

Taking the drug in therapeutic doses (exceeding the daily requirement) is indicated in two cases:

• if there are pronounced signs of folic acid deficiency (in this case, the dosage is calculated individually by the attending physician);
• if there are factors that increase the need for vitamin B9, or stimulate its excretion from the body.

Cases in which it is necessary to take therapeutic doses of the drug:

• use of combined oral contraceptives before conception;
• use of Maalox or Phosphalugel;
• taking anticonvulsants during planning and pregnancy;
• protein diet before conception;
• lack of plant foods in the diet;
• disruption of the digestive tract;
• vomiting during pregnancy.

Folic acid is used in the treatment of tropical diarrhea (sprue). Sprue is a progressive inflammation small intestine, accompanied by diarrhea, impaired intestinal absorption, dystrophic condition, symptoms of megaloblastic anemia, dysfunction endocrine glands and progressive calcium deficiency. The main factors causing tropical diarrhea: infection, vitamin deficiency, protein deficiency in the diet with an excess of saccharides. With this pathology, vitamin B 9 is taken 5 mg per day in order to normalize the process of red blood cell synthesis.

Clinical trials have demonstrated that vitamin B9 may have a beneficial effect in preventing Alzheimer's disease. Individuals with this pathology, as a rule, have reduced levels of folic acid and cyanocobalamin in the blood.

Directions for use and doses

If a woman has any of the above factors, then during pregnancy planning and in the first trimester it is necessary to consume 2-3 mg of vitamin B 9 per day. Also, taking the drug in a higher dosage is necessary when high probability disturbances in the development of the neural tube. This risk is present in women with epilepsy, diabetes, and also in the presence of similar disorders in direct relatives.

The need for folic acid during pregnancy is 0.4 – 0.8 mg per day. However, in case of deficiency, the dosage is significantly increased in order to compensate for the lack of vitamin. The neural tube of the embryo begins to develop at 3-5 weeks of pregnancy. At this time, a woman may not know about pregnancy and may not undergo a timely course of compensation for folic acid deficiency. Therefore, vitamin B 9 must be taken another 1-3 months before the expected pregnancy. The most important thing is to maintain the required level of folic acid in the first trimester.

Folic acid should be taken during lactation in the amount of 0.3 mg per day (can be in the form of a multivitamin complex). This serves as a preventive course for both mother and child. If you use the drug in higher doses (for example, 1 mg), then the excess amount of vitamin is simply removed from the woman’s body, without harming either her or the baby.

It is important to maintain regular intake of vitamin B9. However, given that any drug contains a dose that exceeds the daily requirement for the vitamin, skipping one dose should not cause concern.

• Atherosclerosis. 5 mg of vitamin B 9 per day for two weeks, then 1 mg. It is recommended to take it as a B-complex vitamin.
• Aphthous stomatitis. As a rule, aphthae (ulcers on the oral mucosa) appear along with cracks on the lips due to a deficiency of vitamins and micronutrients involved in hematopoiesis. Among them: vitamin B 9, iron and cyanocobalamin. The recommended dosage is 5 mg of vitamin B 9 3 times a day and 10 mg of iron glycinate for 120-180 days. Once every 30 days, inject cyanocobalamin - 1 mg. During treatment, it is necessary to regularly check the level of cyanocobalamin.
• Viral hepatitis. Folic acid is used as an adjuvant. It is recommended to take 5 mg 3 times a day for 10 days, then 5 mg once a day.
• Gingivitis and periodontitis. Take 1 mg of vitamin B orally 9 times a day, rinse the mouth 2 times a day for one minute with a 1% solution of the vitamin for 60-70 days.
• Depression. Often observed in individuals with folic acid deficiency. Take 2-5 mg every day in combination with B-group vitamins.
• Osteochondrosis. Vitamin B 9 is involved in the formation of a framework from collagen on which calcium salts accumulate. Without a collagen framework, the bone does not acquire the necessary strength. The recommended dosage is once a day 5 mg of vitamin B 9, 50 mg of vitamin B6, 50 mg of B-complex vitamins.
• Colon tumor. If any of your direct relatives have had this cancer, it is strongly recommended to take 1-5 mg of vitamin B 9 and 100 mg of B-complex vitamins once a day.
• Colon spasm. Manifests itself in the form of alternating constipation and diarrhea, colic and bloating. A lack of vitamin B 9 can lead to chronic constipation, which leads to spasm of the colon. You need to start with 10 mg of the vitamin once a day. If no progress is observed after 15-20 days, the dose should be increased to 20-60 mg per day until a positive effect occurs. Then the dosage is gradually reduced. At the same time, it is recommended to take 0.1 g of B-complex vitamins once a day. During the course, it is necessary to regularly check the level of cyanocobalamin. It is recommended to include oat bran in your diet, which contains water-soluble fiber. Wheat bran in this case they are not suitable, since their fiber is insoluble.
• Epilepsy. After an attack of epilepsy, the level of vitamin B 9 in the brain decreases. Anticonvulsants also reduce its concentration in blood plasma. As a result, attacks become more frequent. Typically, for epilepsy, 5 mg is prescribed once a day. However, the drug should be taken only after consulting a doctor.

Overdose

Overdose occurs very rarely. To do this, the body must receive hundreds of times more than the required amount of folic acid (20-30 mg). If the required amount of the drug is slightly exceeded, the excess folic acid is eliminated without causing any harm to the body. However, like any medicine, vitamin B 9 preparations can cause allergies.

A serious disadvantage of long-term use of vitamin B 9 is that it hides the symptoms of megaloblastic anemia, but does not stop the neurological disorders characteristic of this disease. Therefore, with prolonged use of vitamin B 9 preparations, hidden progression of severe neurological disorders caused by a lack of cyanocobalamin. Just 10 years ago it was generally accepted that there was no overdose of this micronutrient. However, studies are now known that indicate that pregnant women who have been taking vitamin B9 supplements in high dosages for a long time give birth to children with weak immunity and a tendency to bronchial asthma and colds.

Hypervitaminosis

Increased doses of vitamin B 9 can cause dyspepsia or increased excitability in a child. Long-term use of the vitamin in high dosages is not recommended, as this can lead to a drop in cyanocobalamin levels in the blood.

Side effects

Depending on individual tolerance, folic acid supplements may cause allergic manifestations, bronchospasm, skin redness, hyperthermia, rash.

Vitamin B 9 has no toxic effect on the human body. Were held clinical trials for long-term use of vitamin B 9 at a dosage of 15 mg per day (40 times higher than the body’s daily requirement). According to the research results, the drug did not have any effect toxic effect. However, prolonged use (more than 90 days) of vitamin B 9 in an increased dosage can lead to a drop in the level of cyanocobalamin in the blood, which can cause anemia. Increased doses of the vitamin can provoke digestive tract disorders, increase excitability, and cause an imbalance in kidney function.

Some drugs reduce the content of vitamin B 9 in the blood plasma. Among them:

• acetylsalicylic acid (in increased dosage);
• nitrofurans (taken for urinary tract infections);
• combined oral contraceptives;

Folic acid and men's health

Vitamin B 9 is necessary for both women and men. With chronic vitamin deficiency, men can develop a number of pathologies, including infertility and megaloblastic anemia. Taking folic acid in a therapeutic dosage eliminates such complications.

Main indicator men's health is considered to be the state of spermatozoa. Spermatozoa are the same cells; their synthesis requires protein and nucleic acids. In the absence of vitamin B 9, sperm synthesis is impaired. With a lack of vitamin, the concentration of sperm decreases and their condition worsens: sperm may have an unnatural shape or lack a tail, which reduces their motility. But the worst thing is that such sperm may have the wrong number of chromosomes, and this is the main factor in hereditary diseases in children (for example, Down syndrome).

Vitamin B 9 and the hormone testosterone determine normal development sperm. Folic acid is extremely important for men during puberty, since it is one of the factors in the development of secondary sexual characteristics (deepening of the voice, facial and body hair, intensive growth).

Folic acid in the treatment and prevention of cancer

Vitamin B 9 prevents cancer. But if the disease has already begun, then the drug cannot be used, since folic acid will promote division and cancer cells. In such situations, medications are used that inhibit the activity of vitamin B9, for example methotrexate. This inhibits tumor growth. In order to prevent metabolic disorders, a drug is prescribed that replaces vitamin B 9 - folinic acid. Considering more high risk cancer in older people, they are not recommended to take folic acid supplements without a doctor's recommendation.

Leucovorin is a drug based on folinic acid, successfully used in chemotherapy for cancer. It reduces the severity of intoxication after the use of cytostatic drugs (vomiting, diarrhea, hyperthermia, damage to bone marrow tissue).

Recent studies by scientists in the USA have proven the relationship between taking vitamin B9 supplements and the progression of colon tumors.

Since 1980, Harvard has conducted a survey every 2 years in which approximately 90,000 women with children participated. The questions concerned nutrition and, in particular, taking vitamin complexes. In 1994, the information collected was carefully studied for the incidence of colon cancer, the third most common cancer. cancer among women in the USA. Survey data showed that women who took sufficient amounts of vitamin B 9 - more than 0.4 g mg per day - were least likely to suffer from this disease.

Scientists have concluded: 75% of cases of colon tumors in women can be avoided if they consume prophylactic doses vitamin B 9.

The research allowed us to draw another important conclusion. Colon tumors were least common in women who had regularly consumed vitamin complexes over the past 10-15 years.

Folic acid and prevention of atherosclerosis

IN lately Doctors are increasingly inclined to believe that folic acid is effective in preventing atherosclerosis, the main factor in diseases of the cardiovascular system.

Today, a new theory of the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis is popular in Western countries. According to this theory, main reason progression of atherosclerosis is high level in the blood is not the well-known cholesterol, but another bioactive factor - homocysteine.

Homocysteine ​​is an endogenous amino acid. Under the influence of enzymes in the body, it is transformed into the essential fatty amino acid methionine, which is involved in the production of protein. If the body is deficient in the corresponding enzymes, homocysteine ​​accumulates in the blood and destroys the walls of blood vessels, causing inflammation. Cholesterol is involved in this process at later stages. Supporters new theory claim that without homocysteine ​​even with elevated level cholesterol in the blood, atherosclerosis does not progress.

What is the role of folic acid in this key? The fact is that it is precisely this that is necessary for the synthesis in the body of enzymes that transform homocysteine ​​into methionine. Vitamin B9 deficiency causes a deficiency of the corresponding enzyme. As a result, excess homocysteine ​​accumulates in the blood, which leads to the progression of atherosclerosis, and then to its complications - ischemia of the heart muscle, heart attack, stroke.

Before use, you should consult a specialist.

Any woman planning a pregnancy is obliged to worry in advance about the health of her own and the future baby. For example, drinking folic acid during pregnancy, as vitamin preparation, helping to reduce the possibility of developing pathologies in the fetus.

Benefits of the drug

Vitamin B9 or folate is found in many foods, such as yeast, liver, cottage cheese, green vegetables, cereals, and some fruits. But in order to get daily norm, it is necessary to consume all of them in very large quantities and raw or undercooked, since heat treatment practically destroys the vitamin.

Why take folic acid during pregnancy? At the very beginning of pregnancy, in the first twelve weeks, folate is prescribed. Starting from the second week, the neural tube is formed in the embryo, and acid is needed for its normal formation. The vitamin is required for the formation of red blood cells and reducing the risk of developing pathologies in the fetus.

The expectant mother needs vitamin B9 to prevent anemia, leg pain, and toxicosis. Taking it in the first trimester minimizes the risk of developing abnormalities of the nervous system by almost 70%.

At the time of cell division, with the help of folates, the structure of DNA and RNA molecules is formed and develops without mutations or damage. Acid is involved in the development of organs and tissues of the fetus, reduces the possibility of delays in the child’s mental development and physical defects.

When telling women at the consultation why folic acid is prescribed, doctors advise starting to drink it at the planning stage, at least 90 days before pregnancy.

Dosage and rules of administration

Folic acid intake for ordinary person per day - at least 50 mcg. But, when carrying a child, the need for it increases repeatedly, and for expectant mothers, the norm is 400 mcg. The vitamin is available in the form of tablets or capsules.

In what dosage should pregnant women take folic acid? Many women are interested in how much folic acid a pregnant woman should drink per day. The norm is determined by the attending physician. Taken as an independent drug or as part of a multivitamin. Doctors recommend taking one tablet a day containing from 400 mcg to 1000 mcg. It is recommended that pregnant women take this dose of folic acid without fear of overdose. If a woman takes any prenatal vitamins and is not deficient in vitamin B9, then a separate supplement of folate is not necessary.

If there is a pronounced deficiency of the vitamin in the body, or if there have been cases of babies being born with neural tube pathology, the doctor increases the daily dose of folic acid, sometimes up to 4 mg, which is four tablets that need to be taken one or more times during the day. Tablets are taken at the same time, before meals or with meals. In addition to medications, you can also consume foods containing folates.

How much folic acid should you take during pregnancy? Most important period, in which you cannot do without vitamin B9 - the first trimester. The entire pregnancy depends on how the fetus develops at this time. Starting from the second trimester, required quantity acids, comes in sufficient quantities with the intake of multivitamins.

Folate deficiency

A lack of vitamin during pregnancy can lead to dire consequences not only for the fetus, but also for the mother. If there is a lack of the drug, the process of formation of the placenta and its nutrition is disrupted, which provokes early termination of pregnancy or the birth of a premature baby. Causes abnormalities in the development of the baby, the occurrence mental disorders in newborns.

Deficiency also affects women's well-being. Especially, the need for vitamin B9 arises when its absorption by the body is impaired, or when there is an increased need for it, for example, during breastfeeding.

Symptoms indicating a lack of acid are:

• chronic fatigue;
• decreased appetite;
• decreased immunity;
• irritability;
• insomnia.

A lack of folate also occurs when a pregnant woman has severe toxicosis, accompanied by vomiting, which interferes with the absorption of the drug. In order to determine the presence or absence of a vitamin deficiency, a blood test is prescribed to determine its concentration. Based on the results obtained, the attending physician will prescribe the optimal dose that should be taken until delivery. A lack of the drug can also complicate the onset of pregnancy.

Side effects and overdose

Despite the fact that folates dissolve in water and their excess is eliminated from the body, in some cases, with prolonged and uncontrolled use, an overdose is possible. Its symptoms include a bitter or metallic taste in the mouth, gastrointestinal imbalance, sleep disturbances, and kidney failure. Rarely, an allergic reaction occurs.