Folic Acid - What You Need To Know

Folic acid is one of the water-soluble B vitamins

. It is also commonly known as folate. Various studies have clearly recognised that this nutrient can be beneficial if taken on a regular basis, and as a result, folic acid has gathered a great deal of interest over the last few years.

Which foods are folic acids found in?

Dark green leafy vegetables, broccoli, sprouts, organ meats, legumes and nuts are all great sources of folic acid. Many of them can easily be combined into a meal to ensure that optimum levels of folic acid are being consumed. Unfortunately, folic acid within food is easily destroyed with exposure to heat light and air, so never assume that you are always getting enough folic acid by eating occasional portions of food rich with the vitamin.

What does folic acid do for the body?

Many women who are trying to fall pregnant, or are already pregnant look to folic acid as a way to prevent neural tube defects like spina bifida. A daily dose of 400-500mcg has been clinically proven to be the perfect amount when trying to avoid this devastating defect in babies. Ironically, the long term use of the contraceptive pill has been said to cause folic acid deficiencies.

Hair loss, nerve disorders, fatigue and depression have been linked to folic acid deficiencies. It is used to treat increased homocysteine levels and folic acid also plays an important role in the prevention of anaemia.

While many people say you can never get enough of a good thing, there are some precautions that should be taken with folic acid. By exceeding the daily recommended dose of 400-500mcg, you could be masking more serious problems like anaemia. This is quite rare, but shows just how important it is to always follow the directions given by the manufacturer. It also important that if you experience any allergic reactions from taking the supplement to immediately cease the consumption of it. If you are pregnant and experience these reactions, it's important to discuss it with your doctor too.

Folic acid is such an important part of our body's health requirements, especially for women who are trying to conceive or are already pregnant. By taking the recommended daily dose of 400-500mcg you will help your body to be in great working order and avoid some nasty illnesses and ailments.

by: Jeremy Potter

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