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Folic acid is a B vitamin and is usually associated with a dietary supplement of pregnant women. Of course, taking vitamin B9 is important during pregnancy, but regardless of gender, age or health condition, each of us should provide the body with an appropriate dose of this compound. What are the properties of folic acid and in which products is it the most?
Basic information about folic acid
Folic acid is also known as vitamin B9, vitamin B11, vitamin M and folate. This compound dissolves in water and is present in food in the form of folates. Folic acid plays a very important role in the human body in the prenatal period. That is why its supplementation is especially important in the case of pregnant women. However, it must not be forgotten that vitamin B9 is a compound that the human body needs throughout its life. It supports the work of the nervous, digestive and digestive systems. It significantly affects our well-being and is involved in the formation of red blood cells. Folic acid was first isolated in the 40s from spinach leaves.
The role of folic acid in the body
Folic acid is a compound necessary for the proper functioning of the human body. The importance of folic acid in the development of the fetus stems from the fact that this compound participates in the synthesis of nucleic acids. These acids are used to make human DNA, which in turn regulates the growth and function of all cells. Folic acid also prevents damage to the fetal neural tube. An important function of folic acid is the hematopoietic function. Folic acid prevents the occurrence of anemia, balances the metabolism of nerve cells, and also reduces the risk of cervical cancer. Folic acid has a positive effect on the functioning of the stomach, intestines and liver.
Foods rich in folic acid
Folic acid can be supplemented in the form of various pharmacological preparations. At Medonet Market, you can order 400mcg folic acid from Puritan’s Pride. However, the best digestible source of folic acid are natural products from which we compose our daily meals. To enrich your diet with folic acid, you should include green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale, turnip leaves and romaine lettuce. Folic acid is also found in sunflower seeds, quinoa, chickpeas and peanuts. This vitamin is also present in meat products, especially in the kidneys and liver. Other sources of folic acid are oranges, green peas, cauliflower, parsley, avocado, beetroot, varieties of beans and lentils.
M-Folin SOLHERBS folic acid is available on Medonet Market in easily digestible capsules made of pullulan, so it can also be taken by vegans and vegetarians. There are also preparations that combine folic acid with other nutrients. Order today, for example, folic acid 400ug + DHA Viridian, which has a positive effect on the work of the brain.
Effects of folic acid deficiency
The most serious effects of folate deficiency are anemia, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and various cancers. A diet low in folic acid in pregnant women can cause neural tube defects in the fetus. Declining levels of folic acid in the body can cause fatigue, concentration disorders, insomnia, anxiety and even depression. Folic acid deficiencies typically occur in people with chronic liver disease. Long-term excessive alcohol consumption may also be the cause of vitamin B9 deficiency.
The effects of excess folic acid
Folic acid, despite its health properties, can also be harmful in excess. Taking too high doses of folic acid causes depression, insomnia, irritability and gastrointestinal disorders. Too much folic acid in the body can also cause allergic reactions. Pregnant women who take too much folic acid put their baby at risk of developing asthma in the future. Any folic acid supplementation should be consulted with a doctor.
It is also worth doing tests during pregnancy – a package of blood tests, thanks to which we can easily check the level of folic acid, as well as other parameters important for the course of pregnancy.
Folic acid – price
In pharmacies, you can buy various preparations that contain folic acid. Depending on the manufacturer and the total composition of the preparation, the price of folic acid varies between PLN 10-15 for 60 tablets.
Before use, read the leaflet, which contains indications, contraindications, data on side effects and dosage as well as information on the use of the medicinal product, or consult your doctor or pharmacist, as each drug used improperly is a threat to your life or health.