Whether you are trying to conceive or pregnant already, it is important to get enough folic acid.

Folic acid helps prevent neural tube defects, that occur in a baby's brain, spinal cord and heart. Since development of these organs start in the early weeks of pregnancy, it is critical to take folic acid as early as 3 months before conception and all throughout pregnancy.

Folic acid also supports continuous production of red blood cells to prevent anemia. You can get natural folic acid from the following food sources:
- brussels sprouts, broccoli, spinach, okra, collard greens, turnip greens, cauliflower and asparagus;
- beans, peas, and lentils;
- avocado;
- seeds and nuts;
- citrus fruits and juices.