Folic acid

General Information

Folic acid is a vitamin B group and since it is water soluble, it stays in the body for quite some time. It is found in supplement form and in fortified foods.

Folate from food sources (eg. Green vegetables, mushrooms, liver, bananas, oranges and tomato juice). The body absorbs and uses folic acid more easily than folate from food. The terms folic acid and folate are synonyms often used interchangeably to refer to folic acid supplements.

Common Name

Folic acid, folate, vitamin B9, folacin

Scientific Name

Folic acid, folate acid, pteroylmonoglutamic

How this product works usually?

Folic acid is taken orally and comes in various forms, including chewable tablets, capsules, drops and solutions. The doses ranged from 199 micrograms and 15 micrograms per day for children and adolescents aged 1 to 13, and 30 micrograms to 199 micrograms for those over 14 years. Those whose doctor diagnosed a severe folate deficiency may need higher doses.

For what purposes?

Folic acid contributes significantly to maintaining good health. It helps the body to metabolize proteins and also plays an important role in the functioning of the brain and nerves. It has an important influence on the formation of red blood cells and the production of genetic material known as DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid).

Folic acid is especially important during pregnancy because a low level of folic acid can cause neural tube defects; it is a birth defect where the tissue surrounding the spine does not close properly during development.

Your health care provider may have recommended this product against other diseases. Contact a health care provider if you have any questions.

The folic acid supplements are effective in treating various types of anemia caused by an abnormal reduction in the number of healthy red blood cells, and due to low levels of folic acid in the body.

It is strongly recommended for pregnant women to take folic acid to prevent neural tube defects in their babies, and they commonly prey. In general, folic acid is safe for pregnant or nursing, as long as they comply with the recommended doses.

Folic acid is often prescribed to people who take low-dose methotrexate for long periods (this drug is frequently used to treat conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis). It is a way to prevent mouth sores, nausea and vomiting that may cause methotrexate.

We also assessed the intake of folic acid with vitamins B6 and B12 in order to prevent heart disease. However, a recent study has confirmed that this combination of supplements, compared to a "sugar pill" (placebo), does not reduce the risk of death, heart attack or stroke in the case of persons who have history of heart disease or diabetes.

At recommended doses, folic acid is well tolerated. By cons, high doses can cause side effects such as abdominal cramping, diarrhea, rash, sleep disturbances, irritability and confusion.

It could be an interaction between folic acid and certain medications against seizures. Discuss your concerns with your pharmacist.

Before taking any new medications, including natural health products, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or other health care provider. Tell your health care provider all natural health products you use.