The Importance Of Folic Acid And Folate For Women
Pregnant women are often advised to take folic acid as it prevents neural tube anomalies like anencephaly and spina bifida.However, a new research has proved that it has many more benefits. Experts believe that folic acid may also help to avoid Alzheimer’s disease, some cancers and loss of hearing.
What is folic acid?
Folic acid is an artificial type of folate, which is a B vitamin. Vitamin pills and supplements contain folic acid. Foods like fruits and beans are readily available sources of folate.
Folic acid keeps your blood cells and circulatory systems fit. Without it, red blood cells would find it difficult to carry oxygen all through the body. This may eventually lead to the accumulation of homocysteine, a liquid that may cause brain degeneration, cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis.
Signs of a folic acid deficiency
Signs and symptoms that help to detect folic acid deficiency are:
* Muscle fatigue
* Irritability
* Lack of memory or confusion
* Insomnia
* Depression
* Anemia
* Gingivitis or periodontal disease
Deficiency of folic acid gives rise to problems like dementia, restless leg syndrome, depression and forgetfulness.
Are you at risk for a folic acid deficiency?
Anyone can suffer from deficiency of folic acid if he/she doesn’t take a multivitamin every day.
Lactating/Pregnant Women: Lactating mothers and pregnant women need more folic acid everyday as compared to any other group.
Digestive diseases: As our body takes time to absorb folic acid or folate, people whose digestive system don’t work properly have a higher chance of becoming folate deficient. People with irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease or Crohn’s should consult their nutritionist or physician for the intake of suitable supplements.
Medication users: Treatments for some particular diseases like Type 2 diabetes, epilepsy, liver disease, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and kidney disease influence the body’s power to absorb folic acid. After considering your medications, your physician may recommend to increase the daily dose of folic acid.
Recommended daily dose of folic acid
You won’t be able to get excessive amounts of folate from food. However, you can use supplements to get adequate amounts of folic acid. According to scientists, men and women aged 19 years and above should have a daily intake of a maximum of 1000 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid.
