One in five young women and half of men are unaware that taking folic acid in pregnancy is vital for a baby’s health.
The worrying findings from a YouGov poll suggest many are not being educated about the diet to follow while pregnant.
Experts say folic acid is vital for protecting babies in the womb against spinal defects that can cause paralysis in the legs, poor bladder and bowel control and a risky build-up of fluid in the brain.
A lack of folic acid in early pregnancy has also been linked to developmental conditions including autism and attention-deficit hyperactive disorder.
The NHS recommends women start taking 400 micrograms of folic acid daily – which can cost just £1 for a month’s supply – as soon as they are trying for a baby or ideally three months before.
It says this will help the baby’s brain and spine develop properly.
Folic acid is the man-made form of the B vitamin folate, which is found in dark leafy greens, legumes, broccoli, asparagus and citrus fruits. Women are advised to keep taking it until the 12th week of pregnancy, or longer.
But the survey suggests some unborn babies might be at risk from adults mistakenly believing the vitamin is unsafe.
A lack of folic acid in early pregnancy has also been linked to developmental conditions including autism and attention-deficit hyperactive disorder (file photo)
‘This lack of knowledge in younger adults in particular is deeply worrying,’ said Josephine Smith at Supplement Hub, an online supplement store.
‘These findings highlight a real gap in basic pregnancy and nutritional education. We urgently need better awareness in schools and public health messaging to empower young people with accurate, science-backed information.’
The same poll, carried out on behalf of Supplement Hub of 2,362 adults, also revealed one in seven 18- to 24-year-olds thought, or weren’t sure whether, moderate exercise during pregnancy was harmful – when it reduces the risk of pregnancy-related diabetes.
And almost a third were convinced that going for a swim in pregnancy wasn’t safe for mother or baby.
In fact, it can soothe pregnancy-related back ache and sciatica, improve circulation, reduce swelling and help with stress.