But to do this, women need folic acid a month before they get pregnant through the first few weeks the baby is growing. Why Folic Acid Is So Important Folic acid is a B vitamin that can be found in some enriched foods and vitamin pills. If women have enough of it in their bodies before pregnancy, this vitamin can prevent birth defects of the baby's brain or spine. Spina bifida, a birth defect of the spine, can cause paralysis of the lower body, with no control of bowel or bladder, and learning disabilities. Another type of birth defect affects the brain and causes babies to die within a few days.
Folic acid can help form a baby's brain and spine.
Getting enough takes a small effort. But it makes a big difference. Most of us get some folic acid in our diet every day. Folic acid has been added to some foods such as enriched breads, pastas, rice, and cereals. A well-balanced diet with fruits and vegetables is always important.