Folic acid is a water-soluble member of the B complex. It is also known as folate and folacin. Folic Acid supplements are converted into folate by the body and is used as a dietary supplement and in food fortification as it is more stable during processing and storage.
Key Health Benefits of Folic Acid Supplements
Folic acid supplements are needed for energy production, cell replication and the formation of red and white blood cells. It plays an important role in the conversion of homocysteine into harmless substances. Homocysteine damages the inner lining of arteries and high levels of homocysteine are correlated to an increased risk of atherosclerosis.
Folic acid is especially needed in areas where there is high cell turnover. Therefore, it is an essential component of normal fetal development, especially in the first trimester when most of the neural network is laid down.
It is commonly recommended by natural health care practitioners for a variety of different therapeutic applications including:
- Cervical Dysplasia
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Anemia
- Atherosclerosis
Understanding The Complexities of B Complex & How They Work In Your Body
All of the B vitamins work together and are best used by the body in a B complex, which is why many B complex supplements include a small dose of folic acid in them. If additional supplementation of folic acid is needed, it should be taken in addition to a good B complex.
Folic Acid & B Complex Supplement Varieties
Most B vitamins are water-soluble and any extra from large doses is flushed out of the body easily, therefore, it's best to take lower dosages of the B complex several times a day than one larger dose. Spray or sublingual forms of B vitamins are easily absorbed, as are capsules and if your digestion is healthy, then the tablet form is usually suitable for most people.
Important Considerations About Folic Acid Supplements
Folic acid is depleted by oral contraceptives and many other types of medication. Alcohol blocks the absorption of folic acid. High doses of folic acid can also change the way your body uses certain medications. Check with your health practitioner before taking large doses of folic acid.
Cooking or microwaving destroys folic acid. Pregnant women should begin supplementation before they become pregnant because folic acid is most needed during the first six weeks of fetal life. This is often when a woman does not know she is pregnant.
