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Health Through Tortillas? The CDC Is Adding Folic Acid to Corn Masa Flour to Prevent Neural Tube Defects in Latinas

Health Through Tortillas? The CDC Is Adding Folic Acid to Corn Masa Flour to Prevent Neural Tube Defects in Latinas

The challenges faced by Hispanic/Latina women stand as a compelling issue demanding attention— especially those who are trying to become mothers. According to the CDC, these women are statistically more likely to have a child born with a neural tube defect (NTD) than their non-Hispanic White and Black counterparts. So, it’s become increasingly important to address this health disparity as it requires a multifaceted approach, including the potential benefits of folic acid fortification of corn masa flour.

CDC Attempts to Help Hispanic/Latina Women

Research indicates that Hispanic/Latina women encounter unique obstacles in meeting the recommended levels of folic acid, which is essential for preventing NTDs. One significant factor is the lower levels of folate found in their blood compared to non-Hispanic White women. Additionally, Hispanic/Latina women are more likely to possess the MTHFR C677T gene variant, which can further complicate folate metabolism. Awareness of the benefits of folic acid remains low within this community, exacerbating the issue.

In the United States, a considerable number of women do not consume sufficient folic acid to prevent NTDs. Hispanic/Latina women, in particular, are less likely to obtain folic acid from fortified foods or multivitamins. This trend is especially prevalent among women who primarily speak Spanish, were born outside the United States, and have lived in the country for a shorter duration. To combat this, the US Food and Drug Administration allowed for the voluntary addition of folic acid to corn masa flour in 2016. This flour, a dietary staple for many Hispanic/Latina women, is used to make traditional foods such as tortillas and tamales.

Is Adding Folic Acid to Corn Masa Flour the Solution?

The addition of folic acid to corn masa flour holds the promise of increasing the daily intake of this vital nutrient among Hispanic/Latina women, thereby helping to prevent NTDs in Hispanic/Latino infants. However, data from 2011-2020 reveal that the voluntary fortification of corn masa flour has yet to significantly improve folate status among Hispanic/Latina women. This underscores the importance of checking food labels, as not all corn masa flours may contain added folic acid.

The CDC remains vigilant in monitoring trends in folate levels, consumption, knowledge, and practices among women through various surveys and research methods. Their ongoing research aims to deepen the understanding of these risks and to develop strategies to mitigate them, particularly for Hispanic/Latina women.

Fortifying corn masa flour with folic acid holds promise for increasing folic acid consumption, thereby preventing neural tube defects. Ongoing research and monitoring by the CDC aim to improve folate levels and awareness among these women. Through dedicated efforts and strategic interventions, the health outcomes for Hispanic and Latina mothers and their children can see significant advancements, fostering a healthier future for this vital community.

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