If you are even thinking about trying to conceive you have probably read about the importance of taking folic acid before, during, and even after pregnancy. However, new studies show that taking too much folic acid might actually increase the cancer risk in some individuals. This is not to downplay the importance of folic acid during your pregnancy or the fact that it can significantly reduce the risk of neural tube defects. Not all women take folic acid supplements. However, folic acid has been added to so many different foods that it’s almost impossible for women to be deficient these days. The big worry now is that some women may be getting too much.

Folic Acid in Food

Today, snack bars, cereals, breads, vitamins, and more, will have a good dose of folic acid. The daily required amount is only 400 micrograms so doctors and researchers worry that some people may get more than they need. In fact, they may get so much folic acid that they inadvertently increase their risk of getting certain cancers.

The problem is finding equilibrium because too much or too little can cause problems. Women should definitely not become worried about taking folic acid because without it any children conceived will have a higher risk of neural defects including spina bifida. Other protection offered includes the risk of congenital heart defects or premature birth, anemia, and healthy skin, nails, and hair.

It seems unbelievable, but folic acid can prevent the development of cancer in some cases, like with colon cancer, all the while increasing that same type of cancer if cancerous cells already exist. Doctors and researchers are still not sure about the link and how it will play out, but warn people to be aware of how much folic acid they are getting in their diets and not to exceed 1 gram (1000mg) daily.

This entry was posted on Thursday, July 2nd, 2009 and is filed under News, Pregnancy.