Folic Acid: Why It's Essential Before and During Pregnancy

Folic acid (synthetic form of folate, vitamin B9) is essential for DNA synthesis, cell division, and neurological development. It is best known for its role in preventing neural tube defects (NTDs) — serious congenital abnormalities of the brain and spinal cord (spina bifida, anencephaly) — when taken before and during early pregnancy. The neural tube closes within the first 28 days of pregnancy — often before a woman knows she is pregnant — which is why pre-conception folic acid supplementation is so important.

All women planning a pregnancy or who could become pregnant should take 400 micrograms (0.4mg) of folic acid daily, starting at least one month before conception and continuing through the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Women with a previous pregnancy affected by NTD, those with epilepsy taking anticonvulsants, and those with diabetes, obesity, or coeliac disease require a higher dose of 5mg daily under medical supervision. In Korea, folic acid supplements are available OTC at all pharmacies and are routinely recommended by local clinic GPs.

Beyond pregnancy, folic acid plays important roles in red blood cell formation (megaloblastic anaemia can result from folate deficiency), cardiovascular health (reduces homocysteine levels), and cognitive function. Dietary folate is found in dark leafy vegetables (spinach, perilla leaves), legumes (soybeans, lentils — staples of traditional Korean cuisine), citrus fruits, and fortified cereals. In Korea, dietary folate intake may still be insufficient in some population groups given variable vegetable consumption.