::The Importance of Folic Acid for Your Little One ::

The Importance of Folic Acid for Your Little One

Folic acid is a type of mineral which aids in the formation of DNA in living cells. DNA is the hereditary material in humans and almost all other organisms. Nearly every cell in a person’s body has the same DNA. Children need folic acid as it assists with the healthy growth of new cells

The richest source of folic acid from food is green vegetables, milk and other dairy products

The following is a guideline by WHO (‘World Health Organisation’) for folic acid intake in children:-

a. Children one to three years: 160μg/day
b. Children four to six years : 200μg/day
c. Children seven to nine years : 300μg/day

A balanced Diet

To aid in the healthy and balanced growth and physical development of children, it is important that children receive all other nutrients such as carbohydrate, vitamins, minerals, protein and fat in a balanced diet, however it is crucial that they also get their recommended dose of folic acid. The composition of nutrients from food, varies. Furthermore, there is not one type of food which can provide the body with all the necessary recommended nutrients. This is why a healthy and balanced meal should comprise of a variety of nutrient packed foods.

Parents have been advised by the Ministry of Health, Malaysia to guide children on how to eat healthy foods in order to have an overall balanced diet. This is illustrated through the ‘Food Pyramid.’ The ‘Food Pyramid’ teaches us to:-

a. Eat a variety of foods
b. Eat more rice and bread (contains carbohydrate)
c. Eat less cakes and desserts (high content of sugar and fat)

Signs of folic acid deficiency

The following might be symptoms of a child who is deficient in folic acid

a. Easily tires
b. Pale
c. Lethargic and lack of energy

To all mothers

Studies have also proven that consuming folic acid reduces the risk of neural tube defect.

The following is a guideline by ‘World Health Organization’ (WHO) on how much folic acid expectant and breastfeeding mothers should consume:-

a. Expectant mothers : 600μg/ day
b. Breastfeeding mothers : 500μg/ day

With the right, balanced diet one should be able to receive all the necessary vitamins and minerals required by the body to function and development properly, and additional supplements are only necessary if advised to be taken by a medical practitioners

References:

Ministry of Health, Malaysia
Anakku Mahu Makan (My Child Wants To Eat), Zuraini Mat Issa (2006)
Readers Digest (March 2004)
FAO/WHO (2002). Folate and Folic Acid. In: Human Vitamin and Mineral Requirements Report of a Joint
FAO/WHO Expert Consultation FAO, Rome; p 53-63

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