Folic acid, in alternate terms known as Vitamin B9, is a man-made form of folate. Folate is critical for the creation of DNA, new cells, and other genetic material in our bodies, as well as creating healthy red blood cells. Since our bodies cannot produce folate or store it for an extended period, we must obtain Vitamin B9 consistently through our diet.
Folic Acid - Definition, Benefits, Side Effects
What is Folic Acid
Folic acid, in alternate terms known as Vitamin B9, is a man-made form of folate. Folate is critical for the creation of DNA, new cells, and other genetic material in our bodies, as well as creating healthy red blood cells. Since our bodies cannot produce folate or store it for an extended period, we must obtain Vitamin B9 consistently through our diet.
Its name is derived from the Latin word for leaf, folium, suggesting it is found in leafy vegetables such as spinach. Folate is also found naturally in nuts, seeds, yeast, beans, mushrooms, kidney, liver, and vegetables such as okra, asparagus, as well as orange and tomato fruit juices.
In addition to the natural sources, foods such as flour, cereals, rice, and pasta can be enriched with folic acid.
Folic Acid Deficiency Impacts Health
Folate deficiency in adult’s manifests in the cells and tissues that undergo constant regeneration, such as the blood (megaloblastic anemia), the epithelium (tongue lesions), skin, and hair. There is a possibility of folate deficiency in those whose small intestine does not absorb nutrients from food (malabsorption syndromes).
Folic Acid consumption – Some facts
Folate is especially important during life stages of bodily growth, such as during adolescence, pregnancy, or infancy. In some cases, folate deficiency anemia can be treated using folic acid. It can be taken by most adults and children, but not everyone will benefit from taking it. The average adult needs 200 mcg of folate daily.
Folic Acid Supplements
Folic Acid can also be taken as a supplement and is frequently combined with other Vitamins. Oral Folic Acid Supplements such as RIDOMAXX are used to treat nutritional folate deficiency. It can help reduce low folate levels (folate deficiency) and high homocysteine levels (hyperhomocysteinemia).
Vitamin B9 is rich in dietary supplements. Iron, vitamin D, and folic acid are a powerful combination of Vitamin Tablets.
Health Benefits of Folic Acid
Folic Acid has a plethora of skin and health benefits, including:
- Hair Development:
Folic acid is required for healthy hair growth. It regenerates the cells that aid in hair growth. A lack of folic acid can cause premature graying and hair loss. - Defends against chronic diseases:
Folic acid can lower blood fat levels. This may help prevent and treat obesity and type 2 diabetes. - Solves mensuration problems:
Many women experience significant blood loss during these days. Taking iron and folic acid-rich foods will help improve your condition. However, in the case of supplements, you need to consult a medical specialist. - Heart problems:
The combination of folate and vitamin B12 helps protect against blood vessel disease. As a result, heart attacks are becoming less common. - Glowing Skin:
Folic acid can help give your skin a natural, healthy, and glowing appearance. - Alzheimer’s disease:
Alzheimer’s disease patients may benefit from consuming enough folic acid. Folic acid also aids in the prevention of memory loss caused by aging. - Managing Folate deficiency conditions:
Folate acid can be used to treat folate deficiency-related conditions such as ulcerative colitis, liver disease, alcoholism, and kidney dialysis.
Folic Acid is also beneficial in the treatment of a variety of other conditions such as depression, stroke, memory loss, and cognitive impairment. Additionally, it is used to reduce the harmful effects of lometrexol and methotrexate treatment.
There is no doubt about the fact that it is effective in combating many ailments and diseases, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD), weak bones, jumpy legs, sleep problems, depression, nerve pain, muscle pain, AIDS, vitiligo, and an inherited disease called Fragile X syndrome.
Folic Acid: Side effects and Risks
There are some risks associated with folic acid supplements. In general, if taken as directed, they are safe. Â Folic acid can cause several side effects if it is taken in excess or used for an extended period. Following are a few of the typical side effects of folic acid:
- Heart attacks
- Mouth feeling bad
- Abdominal cramps
- Gas and bloating problems
- stomach upset
- An odd taste
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- A decrease in appetite
- Excessive irritability
- Disordered sleep pattern
- Jitteriness
- Flatulence
Folic acid supplements can cause an allergic reaction in people with allergies. Allergic reactions may manifest as:
- Changes in skin color
- Rashes
- Itching and swelling
- Breathing difficulties
Further, people who are hypersensitive to the drug may develop fatal, potentially life-threatening reactions called anaphylaxis. Most people do not get ill from high circulating folic acid levels, but they may be at risk for prostate cancer.
Conclusion:
In the modern world, most people don’t eat a balanced diet, specifically they don’t consume enough folate-rich foods such as nuts, seeds, and pulses. Folic acid deficiency is no longer a problem in many countries that fortify cereals and pasta with folic acid.