14 Feb Folate – A New Study Shows It Speeds Up Chances Of Conception
Folate is an essential vitamin to help prevent neural tube defects in pregnancy. Now, findings from a new study shows it also speeds up conception, as well as boosts fertility.
The study followed almost 10,000 Danish and American women trying to conceive without fertility treatment. Approximately 4000 were from Denmark, where food is not fortified with folic acid. Almost 6000 women from North America, where food is fortified with folate.
Folate First Past The Fertility Post
Results from the study showed that those women who had higher intake of folate conceived faster than those who had a lower intake. this was true whether it be dietary, or from supplements. The research suggests that folate has a positive impact on fertility. We also already know that it is essential for the health of your baby throughout pregnancy.
During the seven-year study, it was found that the women who had a daily dietary intake of 400 micrograms or more were more likely to conceive faster. Conversely, the women whose daily intake was 250 micrograms or less were 19 to 20 percent less likely to conceive. The total folate intake over the course of the study was strongly linked to becoming pregnant quickly.
Supplementation Works
Another interesting find was that the women who had the lowest dietary intake of folate improved their chances of conception if they took supplements. This was especially true for the women in North America. Their chances of conceiving improved from a 51 percent lower chance of conceiving to only 21 percent. However in Denmark, the news wasn’t as positive, with the gap shrinking from 21 percent to eight percent.
Women who both had a diet high in folic acid, and who took supplement, fell pregnant the fastest.
A healthy diet is always a pre-curser to conception and a healthy pregnancy, especially one high in nutrient-rich fruits and veggies. However folic acid is an essential nutrient for all women trying to conceive. We recommend they begin taking supplements, as well as upping their intake of it in their diet, three months before trying for baby. They should also continue it throughout their pregnancy. Folate can be found in green leafy vegetables, cereals, sunflower seeds and multigrain breads. It can also be found in seafood, but check with your doctor before eating seafood when pregnant.
If you have any questions about the importance of a healthy diet for conceiving and pregnancy, please do get in touch with me.
Love, Dr Raewyn x
