Folic acid also called folate is a B vitamin. Poor levels of folate in your diet in early pregnancy can increase the risk of having a baby with a neural tube defect such as spina bifida.

Good sources:
• Green vegetables eg: spring greens, broccoli and brussel sprouts
• Wholegrain cereals including fortified breads and breakfast cereals
• Pulses, including baked beans
• Yeast extract
• Asparagus
• Oranges
• Nuts

Folic acid is easily lost during cooking so it’s best to steam vegetables or cook them in a small amount of water for a short time.