Folic Acid - Essential For The Development Of A Healthy Baby And More!
Folic acid or vitamin B9, a less know name though, is member of the B-complex family. It is also called folate. It works with other B vitamins, particularly vitamin B12. Although it is present in many foods, folate is easily lost from your body and folate deficiency is thought to be the most common vitamin deficiency in the Western world.
How it works
This vitamin is essential for cell division, the production of red blood cells and the metabolism of proteins and sugars. It is involved in the transmission of the genetic code to offspring and is therefore vital during the early stages of pregnancy to ensure the development of a healthy baby.
Deficiency Symptoms
Anaemia
Cracked lips
Lack of energy
Poor appetite
Benefits
Prevent Birth Defects - Folate is crucial for normal development of the spine and spinal cord during the first three months of pregnancy.
Women who intend to become pregnant are advised to take a daily supplement of 400mcg of folate before conception and for the first three months of pregnancy to reduce the risk of spina bifida, a congenital condition in which part of the bony spine that helps to protect the spinal cord does not develop properly.
Prevent Anemia - Folic acid supplements help to produce healthy red blood cells and thus prevent tiredness and fatigue. However, high amounts of folate can hide the symptoms of pernicious anemia (caused by a lack of vitamin B12) until irreversible brain and nerve damage have occurred.
Prevent Osteoporosis - Folate is thought to help maintain strong bones.
Reduce Heart Problems - It helps to lower levels of the amino acid homocysteine, which is thought to damage the arteries and increase the risk of heart disease.
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