Folic acid is important in everyone’s diet, but it is especially important for pregnant women. According to Nifty Benefits, data has shown that a lack of this important nutrient can lead to problems with the fetus, which includes an increased risk of developing a neural tube defect. It can also cause mental health problems in the baby after it is born. One of the first things a healthcare provider will suggest is a supplement that includes folic acid. Although supplements can be very helpful, it’s much better to get as much of this important nutrient as you can from the food you eat. Beans, Lentils, and Chickpeas The best natural sources of folate include beans, lentils, chickpeas, and even dried peas. This group of foods is also known as pulses. Just a half-cup serving is loaded with folate, so they should be added to your meals wherever you can find room. A few ideas include: Adding cooked lentils with ground beef Using chickpeas to make a hummus Add roasted chickpeas to a salad Put black-eyed peas in a wrap Make a lentil soup Dark Leafy Greens Everyone could stand to add more dark leafy greens to their diet. They contain…