Used part
Folic acid is an important vitamin during pregnancy. Clinical studies have demonstrated that folic acid promotes the proper development of the embryo and foetus, and can help to prevent neural tube defects (such as spina bifida) if it is taken before conception and during the first trimester of the pregnancy. Folic acid promotes the deterioration of a surplus of homocysteine in the body, thus reducing the risk of arterial accumulation. Homocysteine is an amino acid found in the blood. It can accumulate on the walls of the arteries, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease or a stroke.