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Folic Acid: Topic Home
Why Folic Acid is So Important

Folic acid is a B vitamin. It is used in our bodies to make new cells. If a woman has enough folic acid in her body before she is pregnant, it can help prevent major birth defects of her baby’s brain and spine. These birth defects are called neural tube defects or NTDs. Women need to take folic acid every day starting before they are pregnant to help prevent NTDs.
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Photo of women taking vitamins containing folic acid and drinking orange juice
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Specific Topics
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· The Basics About Folic Acid
· The Basics About Spina Bifida
· Frequently Asked Questions
· Cereals that contain 100% of the Daily Value of folic acid
· All Women, Every Day
· Preview and Order Materials
· Folic Acid Quiz
   
 
National Folic Acid Campaign
· Overview   · Materials and References
· What's New · National Council
· State/Local Campaign Efforts   · Newsletters
 Health Professionals
· Overview   · What's New
· Recommendations · CDC Assistance
· Become Involved   · Materials and References

 

 

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Topic Contents
 arrow Topic Home
  arrow Basics
  arrow All Women, Every Day
  arrow Folic Acid Promotion Activities
arrow Health Professionals
arrow Materials
arrow Acido Fólico
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Quick Links
click here for Folic Acid Education Materials
Click here to go to CDC's pregnancy information
Folic Acid Radio PSAs-now available by download
Pregnancy-Planning Education Program
Birth Defects
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Science Ambassadors
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Contact Info

FLOSorry, we can't give you medical advice. Please talk with your doctor for questions about yourself. For other information, please contact:  flo@cdc.gov

Mailing Address
 

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Key Resources
 
Science Ambassador Program
 
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National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities

National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities
 
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