Also known as vitamin B9, folic acid provides countless benefits to our health. That is why the importance of maintaining adequate levels in our body. Its name comes from the Latin “folium” which means leaf. Both women and men, of any age, benefit from this vitamin of group B. It prevents some types of anemia and protects healthy cells, among other functions. Let’s get to know folic acid and its benefits.
The importance of folic acid for our health
The formation of cells and the synthesis of DNA is one of the main functions of folic acid in our body. This vitamin is water-soluble and its excess in the body is discharged through the urine. Although the so-called vitamin B9 does not present symptoms of toxicity, it is important not to exceed the recommended dose.
The recommendation in women is to take folic acid during pregnancy for an adequate formation of the fetus . Even the intake of this vitamin before pregnancy helps prevent some diseases of the future baby. In men, its use may be related to the prevention of heart disease and Alzheimer’s . Also, if a couple wants to conceive a child, the consumption of this vitamin helps the man to produce better quality sperm.
How to take folic acid
This vitamin, in addition to being present in different vitamin supplements and in different presentations, we can get it in some foods. For example in green leafy vegetables, such as lettuce, spinach or chard. Fruits, breads, and cereals are a rich source of folic acid, as is liver. There are foods with great potential, thanks to the presence of this vitamin in its components. You can see it on the product labels that provide the nutritional level of it.
The recommended intake of folic acid for women is 0.04 milligrams, if they have not had a history of complicated pregnancies. Otherwise the consumption will increase to 4 milligrams a day. It is important to note that if the woman is planning to get pregnant, she should start taking this vitamin at least three months before the gestation process. While the recommended dose for men, it can be in a balanced diet rich in vegetables . However, if a deficit occurs, a doctor should be consulted to determine the causes and possible solutions.
Vitamin B9 deficiency
The lack of folic acid in the body can not only cause adverse effects on the fetus, but also affects the functioning of the body. In this way, a number of diseases can be triggered that put our health at risk. Among them anemia, depression, diarrhea, fatigue and even growth problems in children and adolescents. Hence the importance of maintaining optimal levels of folic acid in our body for its proper functioning.
Folic acid is generally found in the foods we eat every day. However, if you think you are presenting any symptoms, do not hesitate to consult a doctor. This will be the one that I recommend if you are in need of consuming some type of vitamin supplement. Remember a balanced diet and physical activity, it is the secret to a healthy life.
