Folic Acid Benefits

Folic acid is a water soluble B vitamin that is crucial for numerous vital functions and processes taking place within our body. This vitamin is of immense importance for cell division and growth, synthesis and repair of DNA, protein metabolism and proper functioning of the brain. It is also important for the production of healthy red blood cells. Folic acid is required by the body to produce 'heme', the component of hemoglobin, which is responsible for carrying iron. A deficiency of this vital nutrient can cause anemia, which can adversely affect the maturation of young red blood cells. Apart from anemia, its deficiency can manifest in fatigue, excessive tiredness, problems in memory and concentration, glossitis, diarrhea, headaches, loss of appetite and weight loss.

Folic Acid Advantages

It is immensely important for human growth and development. This vitamin is of crucial importance for the development of neural tube of the fetus during pregnancy. It can protect the body from several diseases and disorders as well.

• It can facilitate the development of neural tube during pregnancy. If neural tube does not develop properly, it can result in several birth defects.
• It is thought to have blood pressure lowering effects on the body. This vitamin relaxes the blood vessels and thereby, helps to regulate the level of blood pressure.
• It is presumed to be helpful in preventing conditions like, stroke, due to its stabilizing effect on blood pressure.
• It can also prove helpful for boosting heart health, as it reduces the level of the amino acid, homocysteine in the body. Elevated level of homocysteine is considered as one of the major risk factors for heart disease.
• It is good for hair growth and also hellps in the prevention of premature graying of hair and hair loss.
• It may provide protection against certain types of cancers such as, breast, pancreatic, colon, lung, brain, esophageal and cervical cancer.
• It has been found that folic acid can increase lipolysis or hydrolysis of lipids in the fat cells. This may prove helpful in preventing obesity.
• It can also help to improve memory and metal agility, as it is very important for the functions of the brain. It is equally important for improving human fertility as well.

The Role of Folic Acid During Pregnancy

It has some very important benefits for women, especially during pregnancy. This vitamin can significantly reduce the risks for several birth defects including, spina bifida. Spina bifida is a neural tube defect in the developing embryo, which results when the neural tube fails to close correctly. The development of neural tube takes place around one month after conception. Therefore, women are advised to start taking folic acid prior to conception and during early pregnancy. It can also lower the risks for some other birth defects like, encephalocele, anencephaly and cleft lip and palate. In addition to these, some other important benefits for women are, prevention of pregnancy complications such as, preeclampsia, as well as miscarriage and low birth weight of the baby. It is usually considered as one of the most important prenatal vitamins for the pregnant women.

It can be abundantly found in leafy and green vegetables such as, spinach, lettuce and broccoli. Asparagus, mushrooms, beans, meat, orange and tomato juice are some other foods high in this vitamin. Presently, many foods like, cereals, breads, flour, and baked foods are also fortified with folic acid. At times, its supplementation can be required, along with its dietary intake. Its supplements are usually prescribed to pregnant women to reduce the risk for birth defects. These vitamin supplements are required to be taken in the appropriate dosage, as overdose can cause diarrhea, nausea, abdominal distension, flatulence and insomnia. Moreover, taking too much folic acid can mask the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency. Vitamin B12 deficiency, if go unnoticed and untreated can lead to several health problems. To avoid such side effects, its supplements should be taken judiciously, and as per the direction of the physicians.