What is Folic Acid ? Do I need it?Folic Acid is a B complex vitamin. The daily requirement for folic acid is 180 to 200 ug. The average daily folate intake 320ug for men and 240 ug for women. The good thing is most Americans seem to get enough folic acid in their diet. Excess intake of folate can cause hives, redness of the skin,itching and respiraory distress. The Food and drug administration have therefore limits the amount of folate in supplements to 400ug for adults.Health ImplicationsFolic Acid has several health implications. It is important in preventing a form of anemia called megaloblastic anemia. It is needed to synthesize DNA the building block of cells. More recently it has assumed importance in its role to prevent neural tube defects in infants. Neural tube efects is a disease effecting the spinal cord and the brain. Women who plan to get pregnant are encouraged to ensure adequate levels of folic acid several months before they get pregant as this vitamin is needed during the initial stages of fetal development.Folic acid has been implicated in preventing heart disease. What are the sources of folic acid in my diet? |
