Banishing Birth Defects - The Food Health Connection: Healthy Eating A Guide To The New Nutrition
Banishing birth defects
Decades ago, researchers found that women with poor diets were most likely to give birth to babies with neural tube defects. Subsequent studies traced the problem specifically to a lack of folic acid, a B vitamin. In 1992, the RDA for folic acid was increased to 400 mcg, and the newer DRIs call for that amount as well.
Because it's hard to get that much folic acid naturally from food, the FDA requires that certain foods — breads, flours, pastas, rice, and other grains — be fortified with folic acid. Taking a multivitamin containing the standard 400 mcg is extremely important for all women of childbearing age and is potentially useful for everyone because of its protective effects against several forms of cancer and possibly heart disease. Research suggests that the daily dose for women of childbearing age should be even higher, as much as 600 mcg.
YOUR DIET: Birth defects | |
| Good choices | Risky choices |
|
|
| Last updated: | January 23, 2007 |
|---|
Medical content reviewed by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School. Harvard Health Publications, Copyright © 2007 by President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Used with permission of StayWell.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, Use of Content Agreement and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.
