The benefits of vitamin supplements
Ask the doctor
Women of childbearing age should take a folic acid pill every day (in the range of 0.4 to 0.5 micrograms). Folic acid supplements protect against babies being born with neural tube defects. The value of folic acid supplements in pre-venting cancer and heart disease, which had been suggested by studies 20 years ago, has not been confirmed by randomized trials.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.