Folic Acid :- Folic acid is essential for formation of red blood cells and its deficiency results in certain type of anemia. Deficiency of folic acid in the pregnant woman has been linked with spina bifida and neurological defect in the baby. Hence, pregnant women should be given folic acid. Folic acid deficiency is seen in rice-eating population.

Good sources of folic acid are green leafy vegetables, eggs, fish and pulses. Overcooking and boiling destroys the folate in the food.