Related Links

Folic Acid

Folic Acid.net
This site was created to serve as a guide to folic acid for health professionals. It is sponsored by the Association of Schools of Public Health and the March of Dimes.

Folic Acid Now
Sponsored by the National Council on Folic Acid, this partnership of more than 75 organizations is devoted to promoting the benefits and consumption of folic acid. The website links to the council's members, highlighting their activities and programs, and offering information about their available materials.

March of Dimes
The March of Dimes organization has long been associated with preventing birth defects. The site contains information on folic acid since it has been linked to decreasing the risk of unborn babies developing neural tube defects.

Spina Bifida Association of America
Spina bifida is a serious birth defect that has been linked to low folic acid. Here you will find a discussion of natural and synthetic folic acid (synthetic is more easily absorbed) as well as recommendations on the amount to take.

U.S. Food and Drug Administration
This page details the actions that the FDA has taken to fortify foods with folic acid in order to prevent birth defects and promote good health.

Why Folic Acid Is So Important
The National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities has prepared a comprehensive article on folic acid and its benefits. The article appears on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention site.

Education Materials
This material explains why folate is important and is designed for use in counseling situations.

Folate For A Healthy Baby & Healthy You

Folic Acid: Recommended Dietary Allowances
Recommended allowances are provided based on age, gender, state of health (pregnant or breastfeeding) and race.

Sources of Folic Acid
Everything from liver to broccoli to fresh orange juice is listed with portion sizes included.