Folate is essential for overall health and well-being. It supports the development of healthy cells and is especially important for pregnant women to prevent neural tube defects in babies.
Folate
Folate, also known as vitamin B9, is an essential nutrient crucial for numerous biological processes. It plays a key role in:
Folate occurs naturally in foods, while folic acid is the synthetic version commonly found in supplements and fortified products. For an official guide, visit the NIH Folate Fact Sheet.
Folate is essential for overall health and well-being. It supports the development of healthy cells and is especially important for pregnant women to prevent neural tube defects in babies.
Including folate-rich foods in your diet can help prevent deficiency. Here are some excellent sources:
Folate deficiency can have serious health consequences if left unaddressed. Common symptoms include:
Although folate and folic acid are forms of vitamin B9, they are not identical:
The body absorbs folic acid more easily than folate, but high doses of folic acid without monitoring can mask vitamin B12 deficiency.
Folate deficiency can lead to several health complications:
Folate is the natural form of vitamin B9 found in foods, while folic acid is its synthetic counterpart used in supplements and fortifications.
While research suggests a potential link between low folate levels and some cancers, further studies are needed to confirm this association.
A folate blood test measures the level of this nutrient in your blood. Consult a healthcare provider if you suspect a deficiency.
