FOLATE
Folate, also called folacin or folic acid, is most known for its importance in preventing defects in pregnancy. In the 1980's, scientists were able to conclude that folic acid supplementation may reduce the possibility of nervous system deficiencies within newborn babies. One of folate’s functions is to help circulate blood through the body by preventing homocysteine, a substance that causes cardiovascular disease, from increasing. Folate also allows the formation of red blood cells. Folate also holds a critical role in cell development. Skin cells and intestinal cells rely on folic acid for their formation.
Folate may help in preventing or healing health condition such as anemia, cervical dysplasia, cervical tumors, cleft palate or cleft lip, depression, diarrhea, gingivitis, inflammatory bowel disease, insomnia, neural tube defects, non-senile dementia, ovarian tumors, restless leg syndrome, and uterine tumors.
Deficiency of folate causes neurological health problems such as non-senile dementia, depression, restless leg syndrome, mental fatigue, absentmindedness, confusion, depression, and insomnia. Folate deficient individuals may also experience skin problems such as vitiligo, or loss of skin pigment. Problems in the digestive system such as heartburn, diarrhea, and constipation have been linked to folate deficiency. Folate deficiency may heighten the risk of colon and cervical cancers. Folate deficiency prevents red blood cells from forming properly, resulting in anemia.
Folate deficiency is related to a birth defect called neural tube defects. Mothers who severely lack folic acid in their bodies have a higher possibility of giving birth to infants with neural tube defects. Neural tube defects cause mental problems, reduced brain size, and can cause death after birth.
Foods that are excellent sources of folate are asparagus, spinach, pinto beans, beef liver, parsley, turnip greens, lentils, and avocado.
The recommended daily value intake of folate is 400 micrograms per day. Toxicity symptoms for folate include sleeplessness, irritability, and intestinal dysfunction. The Tolerable Upper Intake Level for folate is 1,000 micrograms per day for adults. If taken excessively, folic acid can mask a vitamin B12 deficiency.
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