
27/02/2025
πππ FOLIC ACID-RICH FOODS FOR PREGNANT WOMEN (PART 3)
12. Walnuts
Nuts offer many health benefits, and walnuts are no exception. One ounce (about 28.35 grams) of walnuts provides 28 mcg of folate, which is around 7% of the daily requirement. Including walnuts in a balanced diet not only adds crunch and flavor but also supplies essential nutrients.
Walnuts also contain alpha-linolenic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties, helps reduce cholesterol, and may even have anti-cancer effects.
13. Peanuts
Like walnuts, peanuts are also rich in folic acid and other essential nutrients. Peanuts contain healthy fats, protein, and fiber, which contribute to overall well-being. Studies show that regular peanut consumption may help prevent diseases and promote longevity.
14. Sunflower Seeds and Other Nuts
Sunflower seeds are an excellent source of folic acid, with 100 grams providing 82 mcg of folate, equivalent to 21% of the recommended daily intake. Other nuts also contain high folate levels, such as:
- 100 grams of almonds: 53 mcg of folate
- 100 grams of sesame seeds: 115 mcg of folate
These can be a nutritious snack option when craving something crunchy.
15. Broccoli
Broccoli is a must-have on the list of folic acid-rich foods. One cup of raw broccoli provides 57 mcg of folate, covering 14% of the daily requirement. Interestingly, when cooked at the right temperature, the same serving size provides 168 mcg of folate, fulfilling 42% of daily needs.
In addition to folate, cooked broccoli is also rich in vitamins A, C, K, and manganese.
16. Cabbage
Like broccoli, cabbage is a nutrient-dense vegetable and a natural source of folate. Half a cup of cooked cabbage contains 47 mcg of folate, or 12% of the recommended daily intake. Additionally, cabbage is rich in antioxidants and essential micronutrients.
17. Whole Grains
Many grains such as pasta and bread are fortified with folic acid. The folic acid content varies among products, for example:
- One cup of cooked spaghetti contains 99 mcg of folic acid
- ΒΎ cup of bran cereal contains 194 mcg of folic acid
Interestingly, research suggests that fortified folic acid in grains is more easily absorbed by the body compared to naturally occurring folate in foods.
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