You may be like many people and have heard about folic acid, but question what it has to do with you. Folic acid is a B vitamin that helps your body make new cells, such as blood cells, brain cells, skin, hair, and nails.
During the week of September 8-14, the Virginia Department of Health and other agencies are observing National Folic Acid Awareness Month. The week is designed to bring attention to the importance of folic acid in your diet, particularly for women who are pregnant or may become pregnant. If taken before and during pregnancy, folic acid can help prevent serious birth defects of the spine and brain.
Folic acid can be taken in pill form, or you can find it in some fruit, vegetables and meats.
- Dark leafy vegetables like spinach or kale
- Beans such as lentils and black beans
- Asparagus, okra, avocados
- Fruit like oranges, strawberries, melons and bananas
- Chicken and beef liver
If you are interested in learning more about the benefits of folic acid, visit the Virginia Department of Health. For information about birth defects, contact Christen Crews, Birth Defects Surveillance Coordinator.