Folate

December 20, 2024

Published

Last updated :

February 26, 2025

Graham's Key take aways :

Folate, a B-vitamin (B9), plays a vital role in DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, and overall health.

Folate deficiency can contribute to anaemia and fatigue; during pregnancy, deficiency could lead to serious complications like neural tube defects.

Dietary sources of folate include leafy greens, beans, and fortified cereals.

What Is Folate?

Folate, also known as vitamin B9, is an essential nutrient crucial for numerous biological processes. It plays a key role in:

DNA and RNA synthesis

Red blood cell production

Proper cell division

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.

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Why Is Folate Important?

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 vs. Folic Acid

Although folate and folic acid are forms of vitamin B9, they are not identical:

Folate: The natural form found in foods.

Folic Acid: The synthetic version added to supplements and fortified foods.

The body absorbs folic acid more easily than folate, but high doses of folic acid without monitoring can mask vitamin B12 deficiency.

Foods High in Folate

Including folate-rich foods in your diet can help prevent deficiency. Here are some excellent sources:

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Folate Deficiency and Health Risks

Folate deficiency can have serious health consequences if left unaddressed. Common symptoms include:

Fatigue and weakness

Shortness of breath

Mouth sores or swollen tongue

Irritability

Pale skin due to anaemia

Folate deficiency can lead to several health complications:

Anaemia: A lack of folate impairs red blood cell production, leading to megaloblastic anaemia.

Neural Tube Defects: Pregnant women with low folate levels are at a higher risk of giving birth to babies with neural tube defects like spina bifida.

Potential Cancer Risk: Low folate levels may be linked to certain cancers, although more research is needed.

FAQs

Is folate the same as folic acid?

Folate is the natural form of vitamin B9 found in foods, while folic acid is its synthetic counterpart used in supplements and fortifications.

Can low folate levels indicate cancer?

While research suggests a potential link between low folate levels and some cancers, further studies are needed to confirm this association.

How can I check my folate levels?

A folate blood test measures the level of this nutrient in your blood. Consult a healthcare provider if you suspect a deficiency.

Related Terms

Vitamin B12 - Another B-vitamin essential for red blood cell production and neurological health, often linked with folate.
Folic Acid - The synthetic form of folate used in supplements and fortified foods.
Aneamia - A condition caused by insufficient red blood cells, often linked to folate deficiency.

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