What's the Deal with Folic Acid

Folic acid, is a B vitamin most noted for its importance in pregnancy and the prevention of neural tube defects.  The neural tube is what baby's brain and spinal cord develop from.  When the neural tube fails to close properly, serious brain and spinal problems result.

Folic acid can also do a number of things for mom and dad also. 

• Support red blood cell production and help prevent anemia
• Help prevent homocysteine build-up in your blood
• Support cell production, especially in your skin
• Allow nerves to function properly
• Help prevent osteoporosis-related bone fractures
• Help prevent dementias including Alzheimer's disease

Some excellent natural sources of folic acid include spinach, calf's liver, romaine lettuce, lentils, beets, turnip and collard greens and asparagus.

Try this Asparagus and Melon Salad for a refreshing summer twist on this delicious veggie, or this recipe for Baby Beet Salad that we made last night which supplies both spinach and beets for a double whammy.

Baby Beet Salad

(serves2-3)

4-6 baby beets, cleaned
1/4 cup candied walnuts - you can candy them yourself by toasting them and adding maple syrup
3-4 cups of baby spinach or any mixture of baby greens
1/4 crumbled goat cheese feta

Dressing:
1/8 cup orange juice
1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 Tbsp olive oil
Dash of fresh ground pepper

Whisk all dressing ingredients together.

Steam or boil the beats for about 20 minutes to soften.  Cool and cut up.  Combine all of your ingredients in a large bowl.  Dress just before serving and toss to coat.