Folic Acid Dosage
The German Nutrition Society (DGE) recommends the following daily intake of folic acid (calculated in so-called folate equivalents) for:
- Adults and children aged 13 and over: 300 micrograms
- Pregnant women: 550 micrograms
- Lactating women: 450 micrograms
In addition to a folate-rich diet, women who wish to become pregnant or could become pregnant should take 400 micrograms of synthetic folic acid per day in the form of a supplement to prevent neural tube defects. The additional use of a folic acid supplement should begin at least four weeks before the start of pregnancy and be continued during the first three months of pregnancy. Women who start taking a folic acid supplement less than four weeks before conception should use higher-dose preparations.