Benefits of Folic Acid

What is Folic Acid

Folic Acid is a water soluble member of the B family of vitamins. It is essential for the formation of red blood cells. It is measured in mcg (micrograms).

What Folic acid does

Folic Acid stimulates lactation in females. It is a natural pain analgesic. Folic Acid also fights off intestinal parasites and helps to prevent food poisoning. It is also known to delay the graying of hair.

Signs of Folic acid deficiency

One disorder that can result from a lack of Folic acid is Nutritional Macrocytic Anemia. Other symptoms include gastrointestinal problems and a decline in red blood cell procduction.

Food containing Folic acid

There are several natural sources of Folic acid. Green leafy vegetables, avacados, apricots, carrots, and pumpkins are all rich in Folic acid. It is also found in whole wheat, dark rye flour, certain yeasts, beans, egg yolks, and liver.

Taking Folic acid

Folic acid is usually found in multi-vitamins, especially B-complex ones. It is mainly taken in pill form. 400 mcg. is the most common amount per pill and is the average daily dose for an adult. 1 mg. or higher doses are only available with prescriptions. There are no known toxic effects.

Inhibitors of Folic acid

Folic acid has several enemies. Estrogen, heat from boiling, excessive water, sulfa drugs, sunlight, and food processing can all counteract the effects of Folic acid.