Folic acid at a glance
Folic acid is a water soluble B vitamin which occurs naturally in food particularly in leafy green vegetables such as spinach and can also be taken as food supplements. It also doubles up as one of the main elements necessary for the production as well as maintenance of the human body cell hence the reason it is essential for growth, brain function as well as mental & emotional well being. Just like other B-vitamins, this acid converts carbohydrates into sugar which is later on turned into energy. It also works closely with Vitamin B12 and B6 in regulating blood cells as well as controlling blood levels of homocysteine commonly known to get rid of folic acid from the body.
Below is an overview of the importance of folic acid to the body
a) During pregnancy
Folic acid taken in through folic acid supplements during the first trimester of the pregnancy period helps reduce the possibilities of the infant having any defects during birth by 72 % to 100 %. What’s more, research findings indicate that this same acid is very effective in preventing miscarriages etc.
b) Increases bone strength
Folic acid is one of the key elements which helps increase the health of bones. In fact, sufficient levels of Vitamin B9 coupled with B6 and B12 greatly reduces the likelihood of suffering from osteoporosis \or any other bone related ailments.
c) Effective in cancer prevention
The acid has the ability to suppress cancer cell mutation to great lengths. As a result of this it reduces the vulnerability to cancer especially cancer of the colon, cervix, stomach, breast etc.
d) Assists with homocysteine control
The acid helps reduce homocysteine and cholesterol which are both risk factors for heart disease, heart attack or stroke. Folic acid also helps prevent any kind of damage to the blood vessels while at the same time encouraging better flow of blood.
Apart from the above, the acid is also very effective in strengthening the nervous system as well as preventing the occurrence / development of nervous disorders such as Alzheimer’s and dementia.Read More
Leave a Reply