Libia Wohlert, MD, Applauds New California Law Requiring Folic Acid to be Added to Tortillas to Reduce Birth Defects

California has become the first state to require folic acid, an essential vitamin that helps prevent serious birth defects in babies, to be added to tortillas and corn masa products sold in the state. Folic acid has been added to foods like bread and cereal for decades, but corn masa products, an integral part of Latino household diets, were not required to have the vitamin added.

According to the California Department of Public Health, Latinas are less likely to take folic acid before pregnancy compared to other groups, placing their developing fetus at higher risk for birth defects. Early in pregnancy, folic acid is essential to healthy spine and brain development for babies growing in the womb. Research has shown that when folic acid is taken before and in the early weeks of pregnancy, it can help prevent birth defects by up to 70%.

“Critical early development has already begun by the time someone finds out they’re pregnant– especially in an unplanned pregnancy,” said Libia Wolhert, MD, family medicine and maternity care physician at Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center. “Folic acid is an essential nutrient for a healthy baby and a healthy pregnancy.”

During the first four weeks of gestation, the brain and spine begin to form. Many people may not even know they’re pregnant during this time, especially when the pregnancy is unplanned.

In 1998, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration required folic acid fortification in enriched grain products, including cereals, breads, pasta and rice. Since that rule took effect, the number of babies born with spine and brain defects, most commonly known as spina bifida and anencephaly, have dropped by 35% — about 1,300 fewer babies every year — according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“Adding folic acid to foods that families already eat every day is a powerful way to support healthy pregnancies and healthier babies,” says Dr. Wolhert. “This new law is a great way to ensure that potential moms get this essential nutrient.”

Dr. Wolhert encourages all women who are trying to get pregnant to see their primary care physician to learn how they can improve their health. A primary care doctor can order blood work that can determine the status of your health and deficiencies that  should be addressed and managed.