Should folic acid be taken in the morning or at night?
Jan 12, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Duan Yan
Introduction
Folic acid is primarily used to prevent neural tube defects. Taking it in the morning or evening generally makes little difference; however, it is advisable to take it after meals. This is because folic acid can mildly irritate the stomach, and taking it on an empty stomach may exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms. Therefore, it is best taken after eating.
Folic acid is the generic name of a Western medicine and belongs to the class of antianemic agents. It is used to treat folic acid deficiency and megaloblastic anemia caused by such deficiency. Women may take folic acid prophylactically during pregnancy and lactation. It can also help correct folic acid deficiency associated with chronic hemolytic anemia. Many people are uncertain whether folic acid is best taken in the morning or evening—this article addresses that question.
Should folic acid be taken in the morning or evening?
Folic acid primarily serves to prevent neural tube defects (NTDs). Whether it is taken in the morning or evening generally makes little difference. However, it is advisable to take it after meals, as folic acid may irritate the gastric mucosa; taking it on an empty stomach could exacerbate gastrointestinal side effects. Therefore, postprandial administration is recommended.
Typically, women begin folic acid supplementation three months prior to conception and continue through the first trimester (i.e., up to 12 weeks of gestation) to reduce the risk of neural tube defects. Folic acid use must always be guided by a healthcare professional. Men may also benefit from folic acid supplementation, as it may improve sperm viability. Additionally, incorporating folate-rich foods into the daily diet—such as apples, bananas, dragon fruit, kiwifruit, spinach, and Chinese cabbage—can help maintain adequate folate levels.
Knowledge Extension: Key Functions of Folic Acid
1. Prevention of maternal anemia: Pregnant women require folic acid for normal red blood cell production. Epidemiological data indicate that the prevalence of anemia among Chinese women of childbearing age is 20.6%. Inadequate folic acid intake may contribute to anemia during pregnancy.
2. Prevention of congenital anomalies in the baby: Folic acid supplementation reduces the risk of birth defects, including congenital heart disease.
3. Prevention of neural tube defects (NTDs): NTDs are among the most common congenital malformations in Chinese newborns. If women consume the recommended daily dose of folic acid beginning at least one month before conception and continuing throughout the first trimester, the risk of NTDs in their babies can be reduced by 50–70%.
4. Promotion of placental development: As folic acid plays a critical role in DNA synthesis and cellular structure, sufficient intake is especially vital for the rapid growth of both the placenta and the developing fetus.
5. Prevention of preeclampsia in pregnant women: Multivitamin supplements containing folic acid have been shown to lower the risk of preeclampsia during pregnancy.
The above outlines considerations regarding whether folic acid should be taken in the morning or evening. We hope this information is helpful to you.
