If you have a genetic history of neural tube defects (NTDs) and need to take a very high dosage of folic acid, your doctor will need to write a prescription for you. You may be prescribed as much as 5,000 mcg daily. [4] X Research source

That said, do not take two doses if you skip a day. For example, if you realize on Friday that you never took folic acid on Thursday, do not take two doses on Friday. This has the potential to harm your body.

Keep multivitamins or folic acid tablets out of the reach of children.

If the pregnancy is unplanned and you find out 2 or 3 months in, talk to your doctor and start taking folic acid as soon as possible.

Also tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, are an alcoholic, or have any type of anemia. If you have any of these conditions, your doctor will need to adjust your dosage of folic acid. [10] X Research source If your doctor suggests that you take a higher dosage of folic acid due to a health condition, follow the dosage directions given by your doctor.

If you take a prenatal vitamin supplement, it likely contains all the folic acid you’ll need. Many prenatal vitamins contain 800–1,000 mcg of folic acid.

Generally, breastfeeding women should take 500 mcg of folic acid daily. [13] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source

As with any other medical condition, seek your doctor’s input before taking folic acid for a medical condition. The recommended or prescribed dosage may vary, and it can be dangerous to self-medicate without consulting a doctor. The dosage your doctor suggests will vary based on your age and the severity of your anemia.

If you’re not pregnant (or if you’re male), this obviously isn’t a concern. It’s recommended that men and women over 13 years of age consume 400 mcg of folic acid daily, though. For most people, this can easily be achieved through dietary means. [16] X Research source

1 cup (237 grams) of cooked okra contains 206 mcg of folate. The same size serving of avocado contains about 100 mcg of folate.

When you’re out shopping, look closely at the informational nutrition label on a food item. If it says “enriched,” this means that folic acid has been added. The label should also specify how much folic acid is contained in a serving. The FDA has required that these foods be fortified with folic acid since 1998 in the United States. [20] X Trustworthy Source US Office on Women’s Health U. S. government agency providing resources for women’s health Go to source