Folic acid
Adults need 200 micrograms of folate a day.
Short answer Adults need 200 micrograms of folate a day. If you could become pregnant, take a 400 microgram folic acid supplement daily until 12 weeks of pregnancy, to help prevent neural tube defects.
What folate does
It contributes to normal blood formation and to maternal tissue growth during pregnancy.
A caution
Taking more than 1mg a day can mask vitamin B12 deficiency. Some women are prescribed 5mg; follow your doctor's advice.
Related pages
- BiotinBiotin contributes to the maintenance of normal hair and skin.
- Coenzyme Q10Coenzyme Q10 is made by the body and helps cells produce energy.
- Multivitamins for womenA women's multivitamin typically contains more iron and folic acid than a men's.
- Multivitamins for menA men's multivitamin usually has little or no iron, since men need only 8.7mg a day and store it readily.
Keep exploring
- Zinc supplements
- Whey protein
- Melatonin
- Multivitamins
- Wellosophy Natural Balance Shake
- Collagen and menopause
Questions people ask
What should I know about folic acid?
Adults need 200 micrograms of folate a day.
Can I take this with medication?
Ask a pharmacist or GP first; some supplements interact with medicines.
Do supplements replace a balanced diet?
No. They are meant to add to a varied diet, not stand in for one.
Sources
- NHS: B vitamins and folic acid (opens in a new tab)
- NHS: Vitamins, supplements and nutrition in pregnancy (opens in a new tab)
Checked 9 October 2026.