Categories Of People Who Should Start Taking Folic Acid Supplement

Folic acid, or vitamin B9, is a critical nutrient needed for normal biological functioning. It plays a crucial role in cellular development and division, DNA synthesis, and the production of red blood cells. A lack of folic acid can cause numerous health issues, including anemia, neural tube defects, and mental retardation. In this post, I want to briefly educate you according to WebMD, on categories of people who should start taking folic acid supplements.

Females who are expecting a child or who are contemplating becoming pregnant. Neural tube abnormalities and other severe congenital anomalies can occur if a pregnant woman does not consume enough folic acid during pregnancy. To lessen the likelihood of congenital defects, the CDC suggests that all women of reproductive age get at least 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid daily through food or supplements.

Breastfeeding mothers. Because it is transferred from the mother to the child via breast milk, folic acid intake is increased in breastfeeding mothers. Breastfeeding mothers should get at least 500 mcg of folic acid daily.

Those who have problems digesting certain foods. Deficiencies in folic acid absorption have been linked to celiac disease, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis. Supplementation may be required to achieve nutritional sufficiency in such cases.

those who have tried alcohol and found it didn't work for them. Abnormal folic acid metabolism caused by chronic heavy alcohol consumption can impair fertility. In order to ensure proper consumption, people with a history of alcohol abuse may choose to take a supplement.

Those who have been affected by a genetic disorder. The ability of the body to convert folic acid into its active form might be affected by some genetic disorders, such as the MTHFR gene mutation. Methylfolate, the active form of folic acid, is a vitamin that may help people in certain situations.

Vegans and vegetarians. There is a potential for folic acid insufficiency in those who consume a plant-based diet due to the lower levels of bioavailable folic acid found in such diets. Vegans and vegetarians may need to take a supplement to meet their nutritional needs.

Nutritional absorption declines with aging. Because of this, elderly people may be at greater danger of becoming deficient. Take a folic acid supplement if you are over 50 to ensure you are getting enough of this essential vitamin.

While persons in the aforementioned groups may benefit from taking a folic acid supplement, they would also do well to eat a diet rich in folic acid-containing foods such leafy greens, citrus fruits, beans, and fortified grains. High dosages of folic acid can interact with some drugs and disguise symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency, so it's crucial to consult to a doctor before beginning any supplement plan.

To sum up, folic acid is an extremely important nutrient that helps with a wide variety of processes within the body. Pregnant or potentially pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, persons with malabsorption problems, alcoholics, those with specific hereditary abnormalities, vegetarians, vegans, and the elderly are all good candidates for taking a folic acid supplement. Folic acid can be found in foods like spinach, kale, and beans. However, it is best to consult a doctor before beginning any supplement program.

Content created and supplied by: Realhealthgist (via Opera News )