1 September 2009

Recipes for romance and a healthy baby

Romance is a fun part of trying for a baby and so is getting healthy. Couples could consider a folate-rich dinner of lightly stir fried broccoli, crunchy green beans and asparagus spears to accompany grilled fish on a cauliflower and lima bean mash.

On the first day of Spina Bifida Awareness Week, the South East Sydney and Illawarra Area Health Service is reminding women who are planning to have a baby to start eating more foods rich in folate, and to also take a daily folate (folic acid) tablet, at least one month but preferably three months before conception.

“Research shows that seven out of 10 (70%) cases of neural tube defects can be prevented by women increasing intake of folate one month before pregnancy and during the first three months of pregnancy,” Deborah Cameron, Manager Women’s and Babies Health said.

“The first six weeks of pregnancy are most important for protection against spina bifida and other neural tube defects. Taking folate before conception establishes an environment with high levels of folate for the first stages of development.

“We support the Australian and New Zealand Food Standards code mandating the fortification of folic acid in bread. However we still recommend women take folate supplements and consider eating folate rich foods,” Deborah Cameron said.

“Folate is a B group vitamin found in leafy green vegetables, wholegrain breads, cereals and legumes (peas, dried beans and lentils).

“For most women it is recommended to have between 0.4 - 0.5mg of folate each day around the time of conception. Some women may need higher doses of folate and should discuss this with their GP,” Deborah Cameron said.

“Taking folate is one part of planning a couple’s preconception planning.

“Other actions couples to consider includes, reducing alcohol and caffeine, quitting smoking, adopting regular exercise and maintaining healthy weight.

“Taking the time to make a few lifestyle changes, can not only improve the health of your baby but can also increase the chances of getting pregnant,” Deborah Cameron said.

For couples who are planning a pregnancy, it may take time to fall pregnant, Cameron recommends, to relaxing and enjoying time with your partner, knowing you have done everything you can to prepare for a healthy pregnancy.


Media Enquiries: Selina O’Connor – 9382 8226 or 0402 173 402