Description Folate contributes to maternal tissue growth during pregnancy. Folic Acid is the supplementary form of folate. Folate is naturally found in a number of foods, with the best sources including green leafy vegetables (like spinach and kale), avocado and eggs. Your diet could be low in folate if you do not eat these foods on a regular basis. Pregnancy is also a time when low folate could be an issue. Supplemental folic acid intake increases maternal folate levels. Low levels of folate during pregnancy have been identified as a risk factor in the development of neural tube defects in the developing foetus. This is why it is often suggested that women trying to conceive and those who are newly pregnant use a folic acid supplement. Folate is not just helpful to health during pregnancy, it helps to support the immune system, contributes to normal psychological function and reduces tiredness and fatigue.
