Tagged with: awareness birth defects disability folate folic acid neural tube defects Nutrition
Folic acid, also known as folate, is a water soluble B-vitamin that your body needs to function properly. One of its main purposes from an adequate intake is to prevent birth defects, which can result with cranial, spinal, and other physical disabilities. Folic acid forms new blood cells in the body and is responsible for DNA synthesis. Folic acid awareness week is this week, January 3rd-9th, and here is your quick snippet on what you need to know about this vitamin.
What’s an adequate amount of folate?
For men, 400 micrograms per day of folate is the recommended amount. For females, the amount is at least 400 micrograms per day. Moreover, a pregnant female would be encouraged to consume about 600 micrograms of folate each day. It is extremely important for pregnant females to maintain this amount daily so that the risks of neural tube defects for the baby are lowered.
What can I do to get my folate recommendations in daily?
Folate can be found in a variety of citrus fruits and leafy green vegetables. It is also especially rich in spinach, mushrooms, legumes, beans, fortified cereals, kidney, and liver. To aid in reaching your daily recommended amount, consider consuming a multivitamin as well.
Are there any symptoms of a folate deficiency?
Along with birth defects, other signs of a folate deficiency include fatigue, diarrhea, megaloblastic anemia (your red blood cell count is lower than normal), mental confusion, or poor growth. The populations of people who are at the greatest risk for a folic acid deficiency are ones who abuse alcohol or have some type of absorption impairment. On the other hand, it is also important to know that too much folate can mask vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms.
What are some benefits from folic acid consumption?
Many benefits can come from achieving appropriate folate recommendations. Normal digestion and the repair of cells and tissues are suited when this B-vitamin’s needs are met. Research has also shown that folic acid has links to lower risks of depression, maintaining a healthy heart, and preventing certain types of cancer.
Be sure to get your folate in this week!
