What is Folic Acid?
Folic acid is a form of vitamin B that helps the body stay healthy. It is the man-made version of folate, which supports the body's ability to produce red blood cells. Folic acid is available as a supplement.
Folic acid was initially used during the 1930s to treat anemia in pregnant women. It gets its name from the Latin word folium, which means leaf. It was given that name since the vitamin is found in leafy vegetables.
Everyone can benefit by taking folic acid, but it is especially important for women of child bearing age. Folic acid can help prevent abnormalities in a developing baby's spine, which can lead to spina bifida. It can also reduce the likelihood of anencephaly, a condition in which the brain doesn't develop.
Women who plan on becoming pregnant should start taking folic acid at least three months before conception. Women who are already pregnant should begin taking the supplement as soon as they find out about their condition. Folic acid is most important during the first few weeks of pregnancy. According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, pregnant women need 600 mcg. of folic acid daily.
Folic acid is even recommended for women who are not planning on getting pregnant, because nearly half of all pregnancies are unplanned. The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services suggests that these women take a 400 mcg. dosage of folic acid every day. Breastfeeding mothers need 500 mcg.
Folic acid offers other health benefits. It is good for the blood, and can prevent a person from becoming anemic. Preliminary studies suggest that it may also prevent cancer. Researchers have found a possible link between low levels of folic acid and the occurrence of colorectal cancer. Early data also suggests this supplement can help prevent Alzheimer's.
It is important for women to take supplements to be sure that they are getting the daily recommended amount of folic acid. However, they can get added benefits by eating foods to get pure folate. Folate is found in fruits, green leafy vegetables, soymilk, peanuts, and beans.
Women can also get folic acid by eating certain fortified foods. It has been added to some flours, breads, and cereals. These foods can be identified by reading the nutrition labels. Due to all of the nutritional benefits that it offers, women can still find value in continuing to take folic acid supplements after their child bearing years are over.
Written by Jenna Gray
