Scientists from New York State report that higher doses of folic acid during pregnancy and throughout life may have lasting negative effects. The researchers found in their study that the higher doses of folic acid altered offspring's brain development and behavior in ways that are found in neurodevelopmental disorders. These findings suggest that there may be a loss of benefit from unregulated amounts of folic acid throughout pregnancy. In contrast, popular belief favors high folic acid supplementation throughout pregnancy.
Federal guidelines stipulate supplementation of cereals and grains with folic acid to prevent spina bifida or neural tube closure defects in newborns. Adequate levels of folic acid are needed during the first trimester, when neural tube closure occurs and the risk is the highest for defects. However, these higher doses of folic acid are prescribed to women…
