Frequently asked questions

What is folic acid and why is it important?

Folic acid is a "water-soluble" B-vitamin. This is means folic acid does not stay in your body very long, so you need to take it every day.

Folic acid is most important when your body is building new cells, like before and during pregnancy. Folic acid is important before and during pregnancy because it reduces the risk of Spina Bifida and other Birth Defects up to 70%. Folic acid may also improve heart health and help prevent some cancers.

Who should take folic acid and how much?

Both men and women (of childbearing age) should take 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid daily. Folic acid is very important in women of childbearing age because a large number of pregnancies are unplanned pregnancies.

Where can I find folic acid?

Folic acid can be found in the following items:

• Multivitamins- this is your easiest source for your daily source of folic acid because it carries the recommended daily amount of folic acid and other important vitamins.
• Folic acid pills- The folic acid pills have the daily amount of folic acid a person needs but not the other important vitamins.
• Breakfast cereals- Some packages of breakfast cereal are marked with the 100% of Daily Value of folic acid that you need next to the folic acid on the nutrition label.

How can I receive information to display in my clinic or school?

It is quite easy! Fill out the form and get it back to us.

Folic acid and Spina Bifida Brochure Order Form

Our awareness flyer

Click here to download a general awareness flyer about folic acid. If you would like these made available to your clinic, school, or other facility, contact us today and we will have printed versions delivered!

Return forms to:

Spina Bifida Association of Wisconsin
Attn: Tish Duncan
830 N. 109th St, Suite 6
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
Email: tduncan@sbawi.org
Fax: 414.607-9602

Spina Bifida Association of Wisconsin

830 North 109th Street, Suite 6
Wauwatosa, Wisconsin 53226

Phone: (414) 607-9061
Fax: (414) 607-9602
Email: sbawi@sbawi.org

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