Facts about Folic Acid

Folic acid helps the body to make RNA and DNA, the body’s genetic material that contains all the code for new cells. Because of this role, deficiencies of folic acid can have adverse effect especially during pregnancy, infancy and adolescence when the body is growing rapidly. This vitamin in combination with vitamin B12 is essential for the formation, maturation and multiplication of red blood cells. Hence a little bit of deficiency can lead to serious anemia in pregnant women and children. Folate is believed to play an important role in regulating mood.

Folic acid can be rapidly destroyed when heated in any neutral or alkaline substances. So be very careful about the vegetables not getting overcooked. Some other factors that can destroy this vitamin are sulphur drugs, sunlight and various kinds of food processing. Folic acid keeps your heart healthy too.

Folic acids prevent serious birth defects especially before conception and even during pregnancy. It also decreases the chances of feeling dizzy or experiencing morning sickness. It is crucial for the development of DNA. As a result folic acid plays a large role in cell growth and development, as well as tissue formation. It also prevents brain tumor, cardiovascular problems, poor nerve development, and limb deformities. It is good also for the treatment of repeated abortions.

Women should consume food that is rich in folic acid like fortified breakfast cereals, enriched bread, eggs, rice, pasta, kidney beans, lentils, chick peas, vegetables like spinach and legumes and orange juice. With the rich amount of folic acid in the body you are well prepared to have a healthy and happy baby!