Each of the numerous B vitamins is distinctively named and classified, with folic acid being one of the most common forms of vitamin B9. Here is a look at the mechanisms of this important vitamin, and five ways that taking a folic acid supplement can enhance human health.
The Fine Details on Folic Acid
Folic acid is the name of a common form of the vitamin B9. Technically speaking, folic acid is the fully oxidized monoglutamate formof the vitamin. The natural form of vitamin B9 is called folate. Folic acid is absorbed significantly better by the human body than folate.
Vitamin B9 is a water-soluble vitamin, and it is a cofactor in many critical bodily reactions. These include the synthesis of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA), as well as the metabolism of amino acids, among other functions. It is also necessary for breaking down and removing homocysteine, which is necessary to prevent chronic disease. This vitamin also makes a major contribution to the production of red blood cells, making it crucial for the body in certain stages of life.
There are consequences to not getting enough folate or folic acid in your diet over time. The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of vitamin B9 daily for men and women is a minimum of 400 micrograms (mcg) of dietary folate equivalents (DFE)s such as folic acid.
Benefits of Taking Folate
Taking a folic acid supplement can be beneficial in multiple ways, and such consumption even crucial for individuals with certain health needs. Following are five of the top benefits a person could get from supplementing with this needed vitamin:
Preventing birth defects: Pregnancy is a stage in a woman’s life wherein the benefits of folate are of great benefit, specifically to the developing child. Supplementing with folic acid during pregnancy has been shown to reduce the chances of multiple kinds of neural tube defects, as well as diminish the chances of preeclampsia, another birthing complication. The bodily roles of this vitamin are crucial during pregnancy, and early childhood.
Treating folate deficiency: This benefit is self-explanatory, given the consequences that can occur from folate deficiency. If someone is folate deficient, they could experience signs of anemia, impaired immune function, and depression. This can happen for many reasons, including a lack of folate consumption, disease (e.g., celiac disease), and/or the use of certain prescription medications. In these cases, choosing to start taking a folic acid supplement can remedy this deficiency, and it can help someone recover from the effects of being deficient in this vitamin.
Cognitive health and longevity is supported by ensuring that you take in enough of vitamin B9. There is a definitive relationship between folate deficiency and cognitive decline, including dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Taking a folic acid supplement consistently could likely improve cognition and mental acuity, to some degree, in those who are experiencing dementia and other forms of cognitive decline.
Cardiovascular health is benefitted by folate’s effect on reducing blood homocysteine levels. The amino acid homocysteine can accrue in the blood, which unfortunately leads to increased risk of heart disease and stroke. By supplementing with folic acid, the body can reduce homocysteine levels, and therefore help reduce risk in those whose homocysteine levels have been excessive.
The benefits of taking folic acid are many, but these four are perhaps the most beneficial, depending on your health needs. It’s recommended that you always talk to your healthcare provider before trying a new supplement.