Why so much folic acid?

[mrs magoo]

Just wondering why we are advised to take 1600-2000 per day. Most countries advise 400-800 for normal dosage , more of course if medically indicated.

Atomic - sorry if I've missed this but why do you want us to take more than the standard recommendation? I know you want me to take 2000 rather than 1600 as I'm on met but why aren't I taking like 800 instead of 400 say?

[True Blue]

My understanding is:
The LE diet depletes the body of vitamins so extra would be needed for healthy egg production.

The HE diet is high in sodium which depletes FA so again for healthy egg higher doses are needed.

I think that's the idea :)

[Rainbow baby]

I thought the same thing!! My Bf has had 5 kids following her 1st with Spina Bifita (sp) and is routine put on 5ooo so it wont hurt at all and safe is better than sorry! Not that you would be sorry... her little one is adorable but has so many problems it breaks your heart! Just the saying :)

[atomic sagebrush]

le diet is low in folic or can be and also in some nutrients that help folic absorbtion. we also do not know how supps affect folic. it's for safety

[atomic sagebrush]

my son has mild spinabifida on 800 mcg a day 800 is not enough

[mrs magoo]

Ok makes sense due to diet

[atomic sagebrush]

better safe than sorry where babies are concerned.

your body excretes the extra folic.