Folic Acid (Vitamin B9), A Simple Guide To The Vitamin, Functions And Deficiency

Vitamin B9 (folic acid) is present in all living human tissues as important enzymes in amino acid and carbohydrate metabolism and red blood cells production. Vitamin B9 also called folate (Naturally occurring form) or folic acid (synthetically produced) is one of B vitamins. All B vitamins help the body convert food (carbohydrates) into fuel (glucose) which is used to produce energy. B complex vitamins are needed for healthy skin, hair, eyes and liver. They also help the nervous system function properly. Folic acid is found primarily in: Animal sources - liver, kidneys, salmon, milk Vegetable sources: dark green leafy vegetables and yeast Folic acid is essential for production of red blood cells. Folic acid also works closely with vitamin B12 to help make red blood cells and help iron work properly in the body. Folic acid is also needed for growth and reproduction Folic acid is needed for stimulating the brain cell function and has been used to prevent dementia. Folic acid is crucial for proper brain function and plays an important role in mental and emotional health. It aids in the production of DNA and RNA the body's genetic material and is especially important when cells and tissues are growing rapidly such as in infancy, adolescence and pregnancy. Vitamin B9 works with vitamins B6 and B12 and other nutrients to control blood levels of the amino acid homocysteine. Pregnant women need more folic acid to lower the risk of neural tube birth defects including cleft palate, spina bifida, and brain damage. Folic acid Deficiency is a medical condition caused by the deficiency of the human body of Folic acid as a result of inadequate dietary intake or impaired absorption. It is fairly common to have low levels of folic acid. Alcoholism, inflammatory bowel disease and…