The claim about folate cannot imply that adequate folate intake alone will ensure a healthy baby, since so many factors can affect a pregnancy. Women should bear this in mind when contemplating pregnancy, advises Jeanne Latham, a registered dietitian and consumer safety officer in FDA's Office of Special Nutritionals. Genetics play a role, as do other healthful prenatal practices, such as eating an all-around good diet. A well-balanced diet with a variety of foods can provide all those nutrients, including adequate amounts of folate. Folic acid-fortified grain products, including breakfast cereals, will help, too.
Dietary supplements are another source of folate.
Any one or a combination of these options for ensuring adequate folate can help assure women of childbearing age that, if they become pregnant, their babies will be off to a healthy start. Paula Kurtzweil is a member of FDA's public affairs staff. Highlight a word to use our Active Glossary .