Vitamin B₇ - Folic Acid


                Folic acid is an important nutrient for the brain, nerves, and DNA and RNA.  It is especially important for pregnant women and breast-feeding mothers, the elderly, and those suffering from depression and poor memory.  An important function of folic acid in newborns is to prevent cleft palate and neural tube defects, which is the incomplete development of the spinal cord and the brain.  These defects can be prevented if folic acid is taken in doses of 400mg to 800mg before conception and during the first trimester.  Beginning a folic acid rimen one month prior to conception yields the greatest results.  Taking folic acid one month prior to conception and during the first trimester will reduce the risk of neural tube defects by as much as 60%.  

               Along with Vitamin B6 and vitamin B12, folic acid helps to prevent heart disease by reducing the buildup of homocysteine, a toxic component of protein metabolism.  Homocysteine is a causative agent in 10% of heart attacks.  In addition to reducing the risk of a heart attack, lower homocysteine levels also helps prevent osteoporosis.  Folic acid, along with B12, plays a role in cell division.  

               Folic acid is deficiency is the most common vitamin deficiency in the world.  Among the symptoms of a folic acid deficiency are: gingivitis, poor memory, depression, and anemia.  Some drugs can also lead to a deficiency of folic acid, these drugs include: barbiturates, corticosteroids, birth-control pills, antacids, chemotherapy drugs such as methotrexate, and estrogen.  Foods high in folic acid include; eggs, green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale, chard, mustard greens, and beet greens, asparagus, whole grains, oranges, and organ meats.

               

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