Folate

Essential for

the synthesis of genetic material
protein metabolism
a healthy pregnancy
healthy red blood cells, bones and hair
healthy nervous, digestive and immune systems

Absorption and metabolism

Some folic acid is stored in the liver.

Deficiency

Symptoms include anemia, mood disorders and gastrointestinal disorders. Deficiency in pregnancy causes neural tube defects in babies. Low levels may increase the risk of heart disease and cancer.

Sources

Good sources include liver, pulses and dark green leafy vegeta- bles.

Daily recommended dietary intakes

Men                        400 mcg

Women                  400 mcg

Pregnancy             600 mcg

Lactation                500 mcg

Toxic effects of excess intake

These are rare and include gastrointestinal problems and sleep disturbances.

Interactions

Tobacco, alcohol, estrogen, anticonvulsants and several other drugs may raise requirements.

Therapeutic uses of supplements

Uses include prevention of neural tube defects in pregnancy, treatment of anemia, fatigue, mental problems, skin disorders and prevention of heart disease and cancer.

Cautions

Large doses can mask vitamin B12 deficiency which may lead to permanent nerve damage. Folic acid can interfere with the action of anticonvulsant drugs.

Folate Categories:

Folate
Folate health
Folate absorption
Folate deficiency
Folate sources
Folate recommended daily
Folate overdose
Folate supplements
Folate pregnancy
Folate interactions

Other Vitamins:

Vitamin A
Carotenes
Beta carotene
Lycopene
Lutein
Thiamin
Riboflavin
Niacin
Vitamin B6
Folate
Vitamin B12
Biotin
Pantothenic acid
Vitamin C
Vitamin D
Vitamin E
Vitamin K