Question

Can folic acid prevent chromosomal abnormalities?

Answer 1

Folic acid:

1. Folic acid is essential for the proper growth of a foetus, it prevents chromosomal abnormalities.
2. Chromosomal abnormalities occur from the defect in chromosome number and structure in a growing foetus during gestation if proper nutrients are not supplied.
3. Pregnant women are recommended to take 400 mcg of folic acid every day for preventing major birth defects in the brain and spine of the baby.
4. It is called a neural tube defect.
5. The deficiency of folate causes daughter cells to inherit an incorrect amount of DNA during cell division.
6. Even in some cases, due to lack of folate, a complete loss of chromosomes may occur in daughter cells following cell division.