Folic Acid

The eight B vitamins, collectively known as the B complex, help the body produce glucose from carbohydrates to provide energy. They are also necessary for the metabolizing of fats and proteins. Folic Acid, or vitamin B9, is the most commonly deficient B vitamin since food sources are often low in the compound.

Folic Acid can impact several important areas. It is crucial for proper brain health and essential for mental and emotional health. Folic Acid works with vitamins B6 and B12, betaine and SAMe (S-adenosylmethionine) to counteract the amino acid homocysteine which is tied to heart disease, stroke, and osteoporosis.

Folic Acid is very important for women who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant. The developing baby can draw significant amounts of folic acid from the mother. Deficiencies in folic acid are linked to higher incidences of neural tube defects like spina bifida and cleft palate. Women taking folic acid supplements before conception and during the first trimester can cut the occurrence of neural tube defects 72% - 100%. Increased folic acid intake along with a general B complex may help reduce the occurrence of miscarriage as well.

Other areas are being investigated. Folic Acid’s role in Alzheimer’s disease, cervical dysplasia, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), depression, and burns is still being fully explored. Learn more...