A Healthy Diet During Pregnancy Can Help Prevent Birth Defects And Clefts. Diet is an important part of pregnancy. Eat a healthy diet that contains lots of fruits and vegetables and foods

fortified with folic acid. According to the U.S. Government, women who plan to have a child should be sure to take sufficient levels of folic acid (400 micrograins per day) during pregnancy to

help prevent neural tube defects and reduce the risk for cleft lip and palate. When folic acid is taken one month before conception and throughout the first trimester, it has been proven to

reduce the risk for neural tube defects by 50 to 70 per cent. Be sure to receive proper prenatal care, quit smoking, and follow your health care provider’s guidelines for foods to avoid during

pregnancy. Foods to avoid may include raw or undercooked seafood, beef, pork or poultry; delicatessen meats; fish that contain high levels of mercury; smoked seafood; fish exposed to indus-

trial pollutants;

raw shellfish or eggs;

soft cheeses; unpasteurized milk;

pâté;

caffeine; alcohol; and unwashed vegetables. For more

information, visit www.SmileTrain.org.

*AII nonprogram expenses are paid for with start-up grants from our founding supporters. The Smile Train is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit recognized by the 1RS, and all donations to The Smile Train

are tax-deductible in accordance with 1RS regulations. © 2008 The Smile Train.