Folate (DFE)Nutrition library
Folate (DFE)
The single most critical nutrient for preventing neural-tube defects and supporting DNA synthesis and cell division throughout pregnancy.
Think of folate as the quiet architect of early cell division: before you feel pregnant, it is already helping close the neural tube and keep methylation cycles running.
Tracked by these blood markers
- Serum folateµg/L
Trimester focus
| Stage | For the mother | For the baby |
|---|---|---|
| First trimester | Demand is highest relative to supply — supports the maternal methylation cycle in the most sensitive window. | Essential for neural-tube closure, complete by ~28 days post-conception — deficiency here causes the gravest harm. |
| Second trimester | Remains important for the expanding maternal blood volume (red-cell production). | Continues supporting rapid DNA synthesis as organs and tissues grow. |
| Third trimester | Still needed for ongoing red-cell production as blood volume peaks. | Supports the final stages of rapid cell division and growth. |
Connections
See also
- Serum folatemarker
Target note
600 mcg DFE. The 1000 mcg UL is for synthetic folic acid only — 5-MTHF and food folate don't count toward it.