Folic Acid 400ug
Helps the body make healthy new cells.
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Folic Acid is a member of the B group of vitamins and is used in the body for the production of nucleic acids and DNA. It helps in the utilisation of sugar, amino acids and the division of body cells.
Folic acid, known as folate in its natural form, is one of the B-group of vitamins and is needed by the body to help manufacture red blood cells. Folate is found in small amounts in many foods. Good sources include broccoli, brussels sprouts, asparagus, peas, chickpeas and brown rice. Other useful sources include fortified breakfast cereals, some bread and some fruit (such as oranges and bananas).
If you are pregnant or thinking of having a baby you should take a daily 0.4 mg (400 microgram) folic acid supplement from the time you stop using contraception until the 12th week of pregnancy. Folate is necessary for the production and maintenance of new cells which is especially important during periods of rapid cell division and growth such as infancy and pregnancy. Therefore increased folate helps to decrease the likelihood of neural tube defects resulting in malformations of the spine, skull, and brain. Furthermore both adults and children need folate to make normal red blood cells and prevent anemia.
It has been noted that high Folic Acid intake can mask some of the symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency. An early symptom of vitamin B12 deficiency is anemia. But taking large amounts of folic acid treats the anaemia without treating the B12 deficiency. If vitamin B12 deficiency is not noticed, it can eventually lead to damage of the nervous system (neurological damage). This is a concern particularly for older people, because as you get older it becomes more difficult to absorb vitamin B12.
Folic acid appears to regulate the body's production and use of homocysteine, an amino acid-like compound that in excess amounts can contribute to the build up of dangerous plaque in the blood vessels (a precursor of heart disease and stroke).
Some evidence associates low blood levels of folate with a greater risk of cancer. Folate is involved in the synthesis, repair, and functioning of DNA, our genetic map, and a deficiency of folate may result in damage to DNA that may lead to cancer. Several studies have associated diets low in folate with increased risk of breast, pancreatic, and colon cancer.
New research is just being investigated to determine whether there is a link between low levels of folic acid and depression.
Folic Acid tablets may be of benefit to:
• Women who are trying to conceive or are already in their first trimester
• Women who suffer from heart problems
Recommended Daily Intake:
Adults and children over 12 years of age, one tablet daily. Do not exceed recommended daily intake unless advised by a suitably qualified person.
Food supplements should not be used as a subsitute for a varied diet.