Taking the right supplements can prevent certain birth defects

WORLD Birth Defects Day’s main focus and aim is to share what is already known about how to prevent birth defects.

The annual awareness day is celebrated on 3 March and aims at improving the health and quality of life of those affected by congenital conditions.

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There are a number of birth defects or congenital anomalies, congenital disorders or congenital conditions.

The most common of these severe defects are heart defects, neural tube defects and down syndrome.

Annually, an estimated 7.9 million children worldwide are born with a serious birth defect.

Neural tube defects (NTDs) occur when the spinal cord fails to close properly.

The most common neural tube defect is spina bifida, which can occur anywhere along the spine if the neural tube does not close all the way.

This can result in the backbone that protects the spinal cord not forming and closing as it should, in turn often resulting in damage to the spinal cord and nerves.

The most serious neural tube defect is anencephaly, which is when a baby is born without part of its skull and brain.

Babies born with anencephaly will eventually die.

Fortunately, some congenital disorders can be prevented, particularly neural tube defects.

Folate (vitamin B9) is important in red blood cell formation, and for healthy cell growth and function.

This nutrient is crucial during early pregnancy to reduce the risk of these birth defects of the brain and spine.

Folate is found naturally, mainly in dark green leafy vegetables, beans, peas and nuts.

Fruits rich in folate include oranges, lemons, bananas, melons and strawberries.

Taking a prenatal vitamin, containing at least 400 micrograms of folic acid daily, ideally starting three months before conception, can help ensure women get enough of this essential nutrient.

A prenatal vitamin, such as PregOmega Plus, which is South Africa’s number one prenatal choice, contains not only 500 micrograms of folic acid, but also added omega 3, calcium, vitamin D and magnesium, as well as other vitamins and minerals.

While not all birth defects can be prevented, there are certain things that a woman can do before and during pregnancy to increase her chances of having a healthy baby.

Besides getting 400 micrograms of folic acid every day before falling pregnant, other steps include regular check-ups and prenatal care, not drinking alcohol, taking recreational drugs or smoking, preventing infections where possible, and checking with a healthcare provider about any medications they may be taking or thinking about taking, whether these are prescription, over-the-counter or even herbal.

Please remember to speak to a doctor, pharmacist or gynaecologist about what supplements to take before and during pregnancy.

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