Does folic acid use help prevent birth defects?There is good evidence that the risk of certain birth defects (
spina bifida and
anencephaly) are reduced by taking a daily dose of 400 micrograms
folic acid, from 1 month before conception through the first trimester of pregnancy. Therefore, if you would like to become pregnant in the near future, you should take a multivitamin with this amount of folic acid.
Learn moreWhat should I eat while breastfeeding my baby?
Lactating women should get nutrients from a well-balanced, varied diet, rather than from vitamin and mineral supplements. Eat generous amounts of fruits and vegetables, whole and grain breads and cereals, calcium-rich dairy products, and protein-rich foods (meats, fish, and legumes). Make sure you are getting enough calories.
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