Benefit of Folic Acid

What is folic acid?

Folic acid is the name given to the synthetic form of vitamin B9, also know as folate. It plays a significant role in many important functions of the body including maintaining healthy cell growth. In its natural form, it is found in dark green leafy vegetables such as kale and spinach. It is also in liver, dried beans, asparagus, wheat germ, nuts, fortified grain products, broccoli, and citrus fruits.

Why you need it

Probably the most significant health benefit from folic acid is the prevention of neural tube birth defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly. Since the 1960s, scientists have known about the connection between NTDs and a mother’s deficiency in this specific nutrient. It is estimated that around 10,000 babies are born each year in the United States with spina bifida. Experts say that a staggering 70% of them could be prevented with the proper intake of folic acid. A mother’s deficit in this vitamin is also connected with other birth defects such as cleft palate and cleft lip.

However, the prevention of birth defects is not the only health benefit of folic acid. Additional studies have shown that it may also increase heart health, be a deterrent to some kinds of cancer, and the onset of Alzheimer’s. So, both men and women can benefit from the proper intake of this vital nutrient.

Is there a minimum daily requirement?

The minimum daily requirement established by the FDA is 400 micrograms per day for healthy adults. Although scientists suggest up to 1000 micrograms, no limit has been established. This is because there have been no observable negative side effects in relation to levels in excess of 1000 micrograms from food sources.

Low carb diets and pharmaceutical drugs

Since many sources of folate and folic acid fortified foods contain large numbers of carbohydrates, women of child bearing age on low carb diets should pay special attention to their folic acid levels. They could be putting their babies at risk for birth defects. After a simple blood test, a doctor can determine if a deficiency is present. An easy remedy is to simply take a multivitamin that includes at least 400 micrograms of folic acid.

People should also be aware that pharmaceutical drugs containing DFRIs block folate activation in the body. Ways to remedy this situation should be discussed with one’s health care practitioner. Supplementation is usually recommended.