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Delayed folic acid intake can have various implications on a new mother's health. Folic acid is a B vitamin that is crucial for the proper development of the baby's brain and spinal cord during pregnancy [1]. Adequate folic acid levels also play a vital role in preventing birth defects such as neural tube defects (NTDs) [1].

If a woman does not take folic acid supplements before or during the early stages of pregnancy, it can increase the risk of NTDs in the developing fetus [1]. Folic acid supplementation is recommended to start at least one month before conception and continue through the first trimester of pregnancy [1]. Delaying folic acid intake can lead to insufficient levels of this vital nutrient during critical periods of fetal development, increasing the risk of NTDs and other congenital abnormalities [1].

Furthermore, delayed folic acid intake can also impact the mother's health. Folic acid plays a crucial role in the production and maintenance of new cells in the body [1]. Therefore, insufficient folic acid levels can lead to several health issues in new mothers, such as anemia, which is a condition characterized by a low red blood cell count [1]. Anemia can cause fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath, making it difficult for new mothers to care for their newborns [1].

Moreover, folic acid deficiency can also lead to depression and cognitive decline in new mothers [2]. Folic acid plays a crucial role in the synthesis and metabolism of neurotransmitters, which are chemical messengers in the brain [2]. Therefore, insufficient folic acid levels can affect the production and function of these neurotransmitters, leading to mood disorders and cognitive impairment [2].

In summary, delayed folic acid intake can have significant implications on a new mother's health, including an increased risk of NTDs in the developing fetus, anemia, depression, and cognitive decline [1, 2]. Therefore, it is essential to start folic acid supplementation before conception and continue through the first trimester of pregnancy to ensure adequate levels of this vital nutrient during critical periods of fetal development [1].

Sources:

1. "Folic Acid." National Institutes of Health (NIH), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 11 Feb. 2022, <https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Folate-HealthProfessional/>.
2. "Folate and Depression: What's the Connection?" Medical News Today, MediLexicon International, 16 Nov. 2021, <https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/folate-and-depression>.
3. "Folic Acid Patents." DrugPatentWatch, <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/folic-acid>.