What is Folic Acid?

Folic Acid is a B vitamin which is needed in DNA synthesis. DNA allows cells to replicate normally. Inadequate folic acid intake in early pregnancy can lead to many problems, including neural tube defects, arm and leg malformation, heart defects, and cleft palate and lips.

Folic acid is used by the body to produce S-adenosyl methionine (SAM), which is known to have an effect on mood.

Most adults are deficient in folic acid. Folic acid appears to be deficient in most heart disease sufferers, and regular addition of folic acid supplements may prevent as many as 13,500 deaths from cardiovascular disease each year.

Deficiencies are also common in people with malabsorption disorders (inability to properly synthesize nutrients from food) and women taking birth control pills.

Natural sources for Folic Acid:

Beans, leafy green vegetables, citrus fruits, beets, wheat germ, meats.

Folic Acid is useful in treating:

Anxiety, atherosclerosis, depression, Diarrhea, gingivitis, gout, high cholesterol, osteoporosis, pregnancy and post-partum Support, ulcerative colitis.

Recommended dosage for Folic Acid:

400 mcg daily. Women who are or are considering becoming pregnant should take 800 mcg daily.

Important Folic Acid Note:

Cancer patients being treated with methotrexate should consult with their doctors before taking any supplements containing folic acid (including B Complex vitamins).

 

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