Folic acid supplements and vitamin tabs?

[Coldhands]

I want to ttc in the near future so my doc has told me to start taking folic acid which is fine. She has also advised me to take a vitamin supplement as my iron levels are poor and dropping.

The only problem is, that I didn't think of until after, is that folic acid is double the daily recommended dose plus the vitamin supplement is 100% of your recommeded dose (and any additional that is in your food)
so I would be basically taking at least 3 times of the daily recommended amount plus whatever is in food.

Is this safe to do? I have never heard of anyone overdosing on folic acid and I know it helps to prevent spina bifida which is why docs recommend you take it but this amount does seem excessive.

It should be fine IM(non medical)O - some women are advised to take 5mg of folic acid (those with a high risk of defects, for example). The amount of FA you would be taking is far less than that.

What about a multi vitamin aimed at conception/pregnancy (like pregnacare) that covers both?

Yes I was going to say why not take a supplement designed for pregnancy, such as Pregnacare?

Great idea, didn't think of that! Thanks.

I'd also suggest trying to boost your intake of iron and folic acid from natural sources. Synthetic vitamins are never as effective as the Real McCoy and improving your diet and your general health will stand you in good stead long after you have conceived. It's much less likely that you'll experience constipation from eating iron-rich foods than if you take iron tablets, for example.

This excellent chart lists many common vitamins and minerals and provides natural sources of each. Good luck

Thank you very much, great information.