|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
| Definition: | A deficiency of folic acid which results in anemia (megaloblastic anemia).
Note: Recent studies suggest that neural tube defects, which occur early in development of the fetus, are a result of low folic acid levels in the mothers body. These studies showed that an increase in the mother's dietary folic acid before conception, and during the first month of pregnancy reduced the risk of having a child with a neural tube defect. Most doctors recommend that all women capable of becoming pregnant take daily folic acid supplements if their regular diet does not provide a sufficient amount.
|
| Alternative Names: | Deficiency - folic acid, Folic acid deficiency
|
|
|
Review Date: 10/4/2001
Reviewed By: Victoria Kennedy, RN, A.D.A.M. editorial.
|
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
|
|
