What is the best food source for increasing folic acid intake in a pregnant client?

Dried peas are an excellent source for increasing folic acid intake, particularly for a pregnant client. Folate, the natural form of folic acid, is critical during pregnancy as it plays a significant role in DNA synthesis and cell division, which is vital for the developing fetus. Dried peas not only provide a substantial amount of folate but also contain additional nutrients such as protein and fiber, which can contribute to overall health during pregnancy.

While other food options do contain folate, dried peas typically offer a higher concentration compared to the other choices listed. For instance, spinach is known for its folate content and it does provide significant amounts, but when it comes to dried peas, the levels of folate can be more concentrated in serving size. Similarly, while oranges and brown rice also contribute to folate intake, they do not match the folate concentration found in dried peas. Therefore, for effectively boosting folic acid levels in a pregnant client, dried peas stand out as the best choice.