From the Guidelines
Folate, also known as folic acid in its synthetic form, is vitamin B9. It is a water-soluble B vitamin that plays a crucial role in many bodily functions, particularly cell growth and DNA formation [ 1 ]. Folate is naturally found in foods like leafy green vegetables, fruits, beans, and liver, while folic acid is the synthetic version used in supplements and fortified foods. The recommended daily intake for adults is 400 micrograms, though pregnant women need 600 micrograms daily to prevent neural tube defects in developing babies [ 2 ]. Folate deficiency can lead to anemia, weakness, fatigue, and increased risk of birth defects. This vitamin is essential for proper red blood cell formation, DNA synthesis and repair, and supports normal cell division. It also works together with vitamins B12 and C to help the body process and use proteins. For those with deficiencies, supplements are available, but most people can get adequate amounts through a balanced diet that includes folate-rich foods.
Key Points
- Folate is essential for cell growth and DNA formation
- Folate deficiency can lead to anemia, weakness, fatigue, and increased risk of birth defects
- The recommended daily intake for adults is 400 micrograms
- Pregnant women need 600 micrograms daily to prevent neural tube defects
- Folate works together with vitamins B12 and C to help the body process and use proteins
Importance of Folate
Folate serves a number of important functions in the body, including maintenance of DNA synthesis and repair [ 3 ]. There is evidence that folate may inhibit colorectal carcinogenesis via multiple mechanisms. It is crucial to prioritize folate intake to prevent morbidity, mortality, and improve quality of life.
From the FDA Drug Label
Folic acid, N-[ρ-[[(2-amino-4-hydroxy-6-pteridinyl) methyl]-amino]benzoyl]-L-glutamic acid, is a B complex vitamin containing a pteridine moiety linked by a methylene bridge to para-aminobenzoic acid, which is joined by a peptide linkage to glutamic acid. Folic acid is a B complex vitamin.
- The specific vitamin is Vitamin B9. 4
From the Research
Vitamin Identification
Forms of Vitamin B9
- Folic acid is the synthetic form of vitamin B9, found in supplements and fortified foods 5
- Folate occurs naturally in foods 5
- Biologically active form is reduced tetrahydrofolates 6
Importance of Vitamin B9
- Essential for nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) and protein synthesis 5, 6, 9
- Critically important in rapidly proliferating tissues, including fetus and trophoblastic tissue to prevent neural tube defect (NTD) 5
- Prevents megaloblastic anemia, leuco- and thrombocytopenia, cardiovascular disease, embryonic defects, and possibly malignancies, depression and cognitive impairment 6, 7
Dietary Recommendations
- Recommended daily intake of 400 microgram FA/day from preconception until the end of the first trimester to prevent NTD-affected pregnancies 5