Folic Acid 101: Your Best Friend During Pregnancy

If you’re trying to conceive or already have a little one on the way, chances are, you’ve heard the term “folic acid” quite a few times. And for good reason! This is because folic acid is one of the most important nutrients for you and your developing baby. But what exactly is it, and why is everyone talking about it? Let’s break it down simply, so you can better understand how folic acid gives you and your baby the best possible start in this journey. 

What is Folic Acid?

Think of folic acid as a tiny but mighty superhero for your baby’s earliest development. A form of B vitamin, it’s truly one of the best nutrients as it plays a critical role in making new cells. Specifically for your little one, folic acid is crucial for the healthy formation of their brain and spinal cord! Did you know that these two vital organs start developing incredibly early in pregnancy, during the first 3 to 4 weeks? This is often before you’ve even gotten a positive pregnancy test result! Because of this, it’s very important that you have a proper amount of folic acid to help prevent serious neural tube conditions, such as spina bifida.

But as research shows that about half of all pregnancies are unplanned, this makes it more difficult to know when you should start taking folic acid. Because of this, it is actually recommended that all women who could potentially become pregnant take folic acid daily. This way, whether you’re trying to conceive or an unexpected pregnancy occurs, your body is already prepared with the necessary folic acid, essentially providing a strong, safe environment for your baby’s earliest and most critical growth stages.

How Much Do You Need?

Experts generally advise that all women capable of becoming pregnant need 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid every day, while women who are already pregnant should get 400-800 mcg of folic acid daily. These amounts ensure you have enough folic acid to support your own personal health in making new cells, as well as your baby’s development. 

So, how can you add folic acid to your system? Through food, such as leafy green vegetables (like spinach and kale), legumes, eggs, and citrus fruits! However, getting the full recommended amount consistently from food alone can be challenging, especially with a busy schedule, or if you’re also experiencing food aversions.

But don’t worry mom! This is where a reliable maternal supplement rich in folic acid, like Bonina® becomes incredibly helpful. It ensures you consistently hit that crucial daily target, without having to meticulously track every bite of your food. 

How Can Bonina® Help?

Proudly Filipino-made, Bonina® Maternal Milk, is a pregnancy milk specially formulated for expecting mothers to support them in the crucial start of their baby’s development. It’s specifically designed to meet the many changes brought about by pregnancy, and with its Triple Boost Formula, Bonina® provides the right and enough vitamins and minerals na tumutulong sa Laban ni Mommy para sa Tamang Paglaki ni Baby!

With just two glasses daily (one in the morning and one before bed), moms can conveniently get their recommended dose of folic acid, essential for supporting fetal growth and overall development. Plus, with its yummy vanilla flavor, you can also easily incorporate it into other food (like shakes and smoothie bowls) to ensure you’re getting this vital nutrient consistently.

Choosing Bonina® helps give you peace of mind, knowing you’re supporting your future baby’s healthy development right from the very beginning. As you embrace this wonderful chapter of motherhood, Bonina® easily fits into your life, so you can focus on the joy of your journey.