Also called: Folacin, Folate, Pteroylglutamic acid, Vitamin B9
Folic acid is a B vitamin. It helps the body make healthy new cells. Everyone needs folic acid. For women who may get pregnant, it is really important. When a woman has enough folic acid in her body before and during pregnancy, it can prevent major birth defects of her baby's brain or spine.
Foods with folic acid in them include leafy green vegetables, fruits, dried beans, peas and nuts. Enriched breads, cereals and other grain products also contain folic acid. If you don't get enough folic acid from the foods you eat, you can also take it as a dietary supplement. High homocysteine levels are associated with early warning signs of Alzheimer's, such as dementia and memory loss. Swedish researchers showed Alzheimer's patients are more likely to have folic acid deficiencies. What's more, Harvard study showed that men taking the most were 30 percent less likely to suffer a stroke than those taking the least.
Conditions
- Alzheimer's risk
- Blood clots
- Stroke risk
Recommendations
- 400 mcg daily
- Dietary sources: Fortified cereals and breads, whole grains, chickpeas, liver, potatoes, Brussels sprouts, dark leafy greens, and citrus fruits
Interactions & Side Effects
- None
Disclaimer: This website is for information purposes only. By providing the information contained herein we are not diagnosing, treating, curing, mitigating, or preventing any type of disease or medical condition. Before beginning any type of natural, integrative or conventional treatment regime, it is advisible to seek the advice of a licensed healthcare professional.