How Can I Have a Healthy Baby?

We’re planning to start a family soon and I’d like to know if there is any thing we should do now to maximize our chances of having a healthy baby. I’ve heard that folic acid is good, but I don’t know why or when I should start taking it.

1. Try to roughly achieve your ideal weight that is, not more than 10 percent above or below it. You may find conception difficult if your weight is too little.
2. Avoid taking in medicines that are not essential.
3. Reduce alcohol consumption to two to four units a week [a unit is a pub measure of wine or spirit half a pint of beer]
4. Stop smoking.
5. Eat regular balanced meals.
6. Take regular but not overly demanding exercise- brisk walking and swimming are ideal.