Question: Why is folic acid important?
I have been told I should take folic acid. Why is folic acid so important?
Mary - About.com User
Answer: Folic acid is a supplemental form of a B Complex vitamin called folate that is necessary for formation of red blood cells, DNA synthesis and for protein metabolism. Folate is found in citrus fruits, green leafy vegetables, and whole grains. Women who may get pregnant need ample amounts of folate every day to help prevent a birth defect called spina bifida. This defect can occur very early in pregnancy so it is important that moms-to-be start folic acid supplementation or eat folate-rich foods early, even before they attempt to get pregnant.
Some people take supplemental folic acid to reduce homocysteine levels. Having elevated levels of homocysteine is associated with cardiovascular disease. Unfortunately, taking folic acid supplements doesn't appear to decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Sources: Wald D, Morris J,
Law M, Wald N. "Folic Acid, homocysteine, and cardiovascular disease: judging causality in the face inconclusive trial events." BMJ 2006 November; 333: 1114-1117.
Martinez de Villarreal LE, Arredondo P, Hernandez R, Villarreal JZ. "Weekly administration of folic acid and epidemiology of neural tube defects." Matern Child Health J. 2006 Sep;10(5):397-401.
