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Who needs it?:

If you're a woman between the ages of 18 and 40, you need to take folic acid!

Since more than 50% of all pregnancies are unplanned [1], even if you are not planning to become pregnant and using a effective method of birth control, you should take 400 mcg of folic acid every day just in case a pregnancy does occur. Because by the time you know you are pregnant, your baby's brain and spine are already formed. And if you have been taking your 400 mcg of folic acid everyday you have significantly increased the chances that you will deliver a happy and healthy baby. Folic acid plays many other important roles during pregnancy in addition to preventing NTD's [1]. Folic acid:

Helps you produce the additional red blood cells needed when pregnant.
Is a crucial support factor in the rapid growth and development of the placenta and fetus.
Is needed to produce new DNA as cells multiply.
Decreases the likelihood of having a premature baby.
Decreases the likelihood of having a baby of low birth weight (<5 = pounds).
Decreases the risk for early miscarriage.
Prevents heart disease and stroke.
Decreases the level of homocysteine in your blood, thus reducing your risk for cardiovascular disease.
May prevent certain cancers, especially colon cancer.

Think ahead and take folic acid NOW!