Folic acid, also known as Vitamin B9, is an essential vitamin that helps the body form DNA, RNA, and red blood cells. Folic acid is a particularly vital element during periods of rapid growth, such as infancy, adolescence, and pregnancy. Consequently, one of the most important things a person — and especially an expectant mother — can do to prevent fetal defects is to ensure they receive an adequate amount of folic acid.
What are the signs of folate deficiency and who is at risk?
The signs of folic acid deficiency include:
- Stunted growth in children;
- Anemia in adults;
- Digestive problems (diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss);
- Weakness and easy fatigability;
- A sore or painful tongue;
- Headaches;
- Heart rhythm disturbances;
- Irritability and forgetfulness.
The risk groups for this condition include pregnant women, infants under one year of age, and adolescents.
Which products naturally contain folic acid?
Folic acid is naturally present in a variety of food products. These include: meat (especially beef liver and kidneys), legumes, green leafy vegetables (broccoli, spinach, lettuce, soy, parsley, etc.), bananas, blackcurrants, feijoa, kiwi, oranges, mushrooms, fish, caviar, tomatoes, and more.
What are the positive effects of taking folic acid and for which conditions should it be taken?
Everyone requires folic acid, but as mentioned, it is especially important during periods of growth. Folic acid is used for conditions such as:
- Anemias related to folic acid deficiency;
- Memory loss;
- Alzheimer’s disease;
- Age-related hearing and vision loss;
- Osteoporosis;
- Sleep problems;
- Depression;
- Neuralgia;
- Muscle pain;
- Vitiligo;
The supplement is also used to reduce the signs of aging. Furthermore, research confirms the importance of folic acid in the prevention of stroke, neuroblastoma, and leukemia. Taking the medication is crucial for the prevention of congenital birth defects (in pregnant women and women planning a pregnancy).
What are the contraindications and side effects of folic acid?
If you have a hypersensitivity to folic acid or other components of the preparation, taking the medication is not recommended. Additionally, do not take folic acid if you have malignant neoplasms (tumors), malignant anemias, or untreated cobalamin deficiency.
As for side effects, the preparation is generally well-tolerated, but in rare cases, the following may occur:
- Anorexia, nausea, vomiting, abdominal bloating, flatulence, and a bitter taste;
- Hypersensitivity reactions, including erythema, skin rash, itching, hiv es, shortness of breath due to bronchospasm, arterial hypotension, and anaphylactic reactions, including shock;
- Chills, nighttime sleep disturbances, and seizures;
- Hypertrophy of epithelial cells in the renal tubules and impairment of their function.
