Folic Acid
What is it?
Folic Acid is a water-soluble vitamin.
What does it do?
- Works alongside Vitmain B12 in the production of red blood cells.
- Important in energy production as it plays a role in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins.
- Essential for the production of genetic material i.e. DNA, and for proper cell division.
- Essential during pregnancy for the development of the brain and nervous system of the foetus, deficiency during pregnancy has been associated with neural tube defects such as spina bifida.
Deficiency Symptoms
- Anaemia
- Lack of energy, breathlessness
- Anxiety, tension, poor memory, depression
- Loss of appetite
- Digestive complaints including diarrhoea
Recommended Daily Amount (RDA)
Children 50-150μg
Adults 200μg
Works best combination with the other B vitamins, especially B12.
Therapeutic amounts are generally considered to be slightly higher than RDAs.
Food Sources
Wheatgerm, green leafy vegetables especially spinach, yeast, beans, pulses, oats, seeds, nuts, avocado.
Safety Considerations
No significant side effects or toxicity known.
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