Folic acid(vitamin B9, folate) is equally needed and useful for women, men and children of different ages and positions. Every fifth inhabitant of a metropolis suffers from its deficit, without even knowing it.
Structural formula of folic acid. Photo: ms2.farmlux.biz
The more common name for folic acid vitamin B9 or folate... It is a water-soluble substance that is synthesized by the intestinal mucosa and enters the body with food. For the course of many internal processes in the correct mode, an insignificant share of this vitamin is needed, but sometimes even it is not enough. That is why many city dwellers are advised to take dietary supplements or vitamin and mineral complexes with folate content.
What is folic acid for?
Before deciding on the introduction of an additional source of vitamin into the diet, the lack of folic acid in the body is determined. For this they rent.
- The norm of folic acid in the blood is 7-43 nmol / l.
If there are deviations from the norm, the reception is indicated. Human needs vitamin B9 for proper protein assimilation and synthesis. It supports the work of the nervous, digestive system, and the brain. This substance is especially important for the full development of the child's body, as it promotes physical activity and brain function.
Important! Folic acid is a participant in hematopoiesis. If its deficiency is combined with a deficiency, anemia develops within 3 weeks.
Folic acid contributes to the active work of the reproductive system of men and women. Improves sperm quality and promotes conception. During pregnancy, the vitamin is required. Other properties of folate:
- participates in synthesis;
- protects against;
- helps to remove toxins;
- promotes the growth of hair, nails, cleansing the skin from;
- reduces blood clotting rates, protects against thrombosis;
- reduces the risk of developing tumors of internal organs.
To prevent the development of many diseases, improve mood, increase physical activity and resist infections, you need to replenish vitamin stores daily. A young couple planning a baby needs folic acid intake 3-4 months in advance in order to minimize the risks of fetal malformations and safely carry the baby before delivery. Children need an additional source of the substance for the proper development of the nervous system. For infants, it is often prescribed to prevent the development of anemia if there are threatening factors.
How to take folic acid
The daily norm of the vitamin depends on the age and condition of the person. So, children from birth to one year are given 25-35 mcg per day. Older children - from 50 to 200 mcg. Adults with folate deficiency - 400 mcg, and pregnant women - 600 mcg. These figures are repelled when prescribing the dosage of the drug. The body's need for substances increases after injuries, operations,. The instructions for use indicate that an adult can take 5 mg of acid per day at a time or divided by 2-3, depending on the dosage of the drug. For preventive purposes, vitamin B9 is taken at half the rate.
Important! The course of treatment and prevention is 21-30 days. The tablets are drunk regardless of food intake and time of day.
Intolerance to the drug is expressed in skin rashes, allergies, bronchospasm, fever. Pregnant women should take the drug throughout pregnancy and the first months. The doctor will tell you what folic acid to drink. In each individual case, a joint intake of vitamin B9 with other vitamins or minerals may be recommended.
Contraindications to the use of folic acid
With increased sensitivity to folic acid, its intake is contraindicated. Take with caution if you are allergic to other B vitamins. If a person is allergic to foods containing a high dose of folate, it is also contraindicated. Be careful with vitamin B9 supplements for people with the following conditions:
- colitis;
- gastritis;
- cholecystitis;
- intestinal dysbiosis;
- oncological tumors;
- deficiency of B12.
If a person has poor tolerance to many medications, only a doctor should make the decision to take folic acid. Possible serious side effects from folate.
Folic acid deficiency symptoms
With a lack of vitamin B9 in the body and its systematically low intake from outside, pathologies of varying severity develop. The first thing that a person feels is fatigue, drowsiness, irritability, sores on the oral mucosa ,. In women, hormonal system malfunctions occur, signs of depression are brewing, and rapid weight loss is possible. Folic acid for hair - protector against hair loss. If there is not enough substance, the hair quickly thinns and gray hair appears.
During adolescence, acid deficiency provokes an unstable menstrual cycle in girls. In young men, secondary sexual characteristics are poorly developed - voice, body hair. Problems with sperm maturation are possible. For young children, a lack of vitamin is fraught with problems in the work of the gastrointestinal tract. In a child, periods of loose stools are followed by constipation, possible frequent abdominal cramps, and trouble digesting certain foods, especially those high in protein. Symptoms of a lack of a substance are sufficiently lubricated in adults, therefore, changes in well-being are associated with chronic fatigue, physical and mental stress, and lack of fresh air.
Folic acid overdose symptoms
To achieve an overdose of folic acid is possible only by exceeding the daily dose of a pharmacy drug several times. In this case, discomfort in the stomach and intestines, a skin rash, and suffocation are possible. If there is an intolerance, exceeding the dose is fraught with Quincke's edema.
Folic acid during pregnancy
Until a few decades ago, pregnant women were prescribed vitamin B9 to prevent anemia. Later, a direct link was noticed between vitamin intake and the development of the fetal nervous system. So why drink? This substance takes an active part in cell division of the nascent organism. Their correct division is the key to the formation of healthy tissues, organs and systems. It is especially important to regularly drink the vitamin in the first trimester of pregnancy. If even a short-term lack of substance occurs at this time, the child may develop brain pathologies, for example, hernias, and mental retardation is possible. With the direct participation of folate, the placenta and blood vessels in the uterine cavity are formed. If the processes are disrupted, there is a high probability of miscarriage. Gynecologists and pediatricians know that external deformities and malformations of newborns are largely provoked by chronic folate deficiency.
Important! It is especially important to take vitamin B9 during the planning phase of a child. It helps preserve the integrity of DNA and RNA in the egg and sperm. This means that the characteristic features of the genus will be transmitted to the child from the mother and father in a bright, undistorted form. This means eye color, character traits, abilities, predisposition or resistance to diseases, and so on.
Both before and during pregnancy, doctors prescribe folic acid supplementation c. This combination reduces the risk of miscarriage and fetal malformations. In addition, tocopherol reduces the appearance of stretch marks on the skin, hair loss, etc.
Folic acid preparations
The pharmacy chain offers an assortment of folic acid in different dosages and in combination with other components. Below are the characteristics of the most popular. , tablets B9. It is indicated for anemia, vitamin deficiency, pregnancy and breastfeeding.
There are drugs that combine folic acid with drugs for the treatment and prevention of anemia in children and adults. There are dietary supplements that are not medicine, but are positioned as beauty products. They usually combine folate with brewer's yeast, selenium and other vitamins and minerals.
What foods contain folic acid
To maintain the required amount of a substance in the body, it is enough to know where folic acid is contained. Its main source is greens. These are spinach, dill, parsley, arugula, as well as greens and fruits, especially broccoli. From plant products, vitamin B9 is found in meat, eggs, fish, but during heat treatment, 75% of it is destroyed. Therefore, fresh herbs are more useful for replenishing vitamin deficiencies.
- mushrooms;
- legumes;
- oranges, strawberries;
- dairy products;
- tomatoes;
- liver;
- buckwheat.
The fresher and more natural the product, the more folic acid it contains.
Output
Vitamin B9 or folic acid is an important component of the full functioning of the human body. Neglect of the lack of such substances is fraught with a noticeable deterioration in well-being and the development of serious diseases. It is enough to control the level of folate in the blood once a year to maintain health and beauty.
There are several reasons why women need folate. Vitamin is important for the functioning of the nervous system, the condition of the skin, hair and nails. Also, folic acid is necessary for the proper formation of the organs of the unborn child during pregnancy.
Vitamin characteristics
Folic acid belongs to the B vitamins. Its second name is vitamin B9. The daily requirement of a healthy body for this trace element is 0.2–0.4 mg. The active metabolite of folic acid is tetrahydrofolate. He participates in metabolic reactions, hematopoiesis, the formation of sex hormones. In the embryo, folic acid is responsible for the formation of the nervous system.
Why do women need folic acid - for healthy nerves and a successful pregnancy
Why acid is useful for a woman
Vitamin is involved in ensuring the normal functioning of internal organs. Without it, the formation of red blood cells is disrupted - anemia develops. Folic acid stimulates the formation of lymphocytes. These are the main cells of the human immune system. The vitamin provides protection against viruses, bacteria and fungi.
An important property of folic acid for women is to improve the functioning of the nervous system. Resistance to stress factors increases, the emotional background is normalized. Serotonin is produced, which improves mood and reduces the risk of depression.
Participation in the functioning of the cardiovascular system is to normalize cholesterol metabolism. Folic acid prevents the formation of atherosclerotic plaques, reduces the likelihood of heart attack and stroke. Vitamin ensures the constancy of normal intestinal microflora. Thanks to this, digestion and the work of the gastrointestinal tract are improved.
Folic acid promotes normal cell growth and division, preventing cancer and genetic disorders.
An important property of vitamin B9 for women is to improve the condition of the skin, hair and nails. It regulates the function of the sebaceous glands, preventing acne formation. Taking part in the formation of keratin, folic acid makes the nail plate strong and prevents hair loss. Vitamin B9 is especially important for maintaining youth and health in women after 40 years.
Folate is part of the sex hormones. They ensure the regularity of the menstrual cycle, improve reproductive properties. Without folic acid, the maturation of the egg and its release from the ovary is impossible.
Deficiency reasons
Lack of folic acid occurs when there is insufficient supply of it from the outside, increased consumption, and insufficient absorption. The reasons for this are the following conditions:
- strict diets;
- pregnancy;
- gastrointestinal diseases;
- alcohol abuse;
- oncological diseases.
In all these conditions, the body requires an increased amount of vitamin B9.
The body does not have enough folic acid in case of insufficient intake of it with food or in case of impaired assimilation
Folate deficiency manifestations
A lack of folic acid first affects the condition of the skin and nervous system. The woman becomes irritable, reacts more sharply to stressful factors. The quality of sleep suffers, which leads to increased fatigue, frequent headaches, and decreased ability to work.
Chronic stress causes depression. The skin becomes dry and dull, wrinkles and age spots appear. Hair also grows dull, begins to fall out quickly. Nails flake and break.
With prolonged deficiency of folic acid, dysbiosis occurs due to changes in the composition of the intestinal microflora.
This is manifested by impaired digestion of food, nausea, and upset stools. Nutrients and vitamins cease to be absorbed, which also affects the woman's appearance.
Due to the violation of cell metabolism, the risk of developing malignant tumors increases. The process of formation of sex hormones is disrupted. Because of this, menstrual irregularities occur, gynecological diseases develop. The likelihood of getting pregnant decreases, up to secondary infertility.
Deficiency diagnosis
The diagnosis of folate deficiency cannot be made on the basis of subjective complaints and external manifestations. A woman should undergo a comprehensive examination, which includes:
- general and biochemical blood tests;
- determination of the level of hormones;
- coprogram;
- feces for dysbiosis.
A blood test for vitamins helps to confirm folate deficiency.
Replenishment rules
A person gets folic acid from food. Vitamin B9 is found in:
- meat offal;
- beef;
- green vegetables and fruits;
- sea fish;
- nuts and seeds;
- greenery;
- buckwheat;
- rye bread.
If a woman eats properly, is not fond of rigid diets, she will receive a sufficient amount of folic acid. In such conditions, vitamin deficiency does not develop if there are no conditions that disrupt its absorption. It is enough to take a monthly course of multivitamins once a year to ensure normal folate content.
During heat treatment, vitamin B9 is destroyed. Therefore, whenever possible, vegetables, fruits and herbs should be eaten raw.
Vitamin B9 is absorbed only when there is a healthy intestinal microflora. If a person has dysbiosis, folate will not be absorbed from food or medications. Therefore, it is recommended to take it in conjunction with probiotics.
Contains folic acid in medicines and dietary supplements. The former are recommended to be taken in case of serious diseases, and dietary supplements - in case of nutritional or age-related deficiency. You can take a pure folic acid preparation only as directed by a doctor, if vitamin deficiency is confirmed by tests.
An additional source of folate is needed for adolescent girls, pregnant women, and women over 40. They are recommended to use multivitamins with a high content of folic acid or pure preparations with a dose of 0.2 mg. In the presence of diseases that impair the absorption of folate, the dosage is determined individually. Usually it is 0.3-0.4 mg, that is, the average daily dose.
If the woman is eating properly, the use of drugs with folic acid is not required.
Features in pregnant women
Folic acid is especially important for pregnant women and those who are just planning a pregnancy. It is recommended to take the drug within three months before conception. Vitamin B9 reduces the risk of developing genetic disorders at the time of fertilization, improves ovarian function and increases the likelihood of conception. When planning pregnancy, the recommended dose of the vitamin is 0.8 mg per day.
When a woman becomes pregnant, vitamin B9 is needed for the correct formation and formation of the fetal nervous system. This happens in the first trimester of pregnancy. Also, folic acid in the early stages prevents miscarriages, pregnancy fading, malformations.
Folate is essential for the proper formation of the placenta.
The norm of folic acid during pregnancy is 0.4 mg per day. You need to take it throughout the first trimester. If a woman has already had children with neurological disorders, it is recommended to take the drug throughout pregnancy.
The benefits of folic acid or vitamin B9 have been known for a long time. However, active promotion of the reception began about 10 years ago. The drugs are recommended for pregnant women and people suffering from anemia due to their properties. The benefits and harms of folic acid are considered before use.
Folic acid composition
The benefits of folic acid for the body are in the regulation of metabolism, the synthesis of immune cells, the production of DNA, and the normalization of the digestive system. Vitamin B9 is beneficial for pregnant women. Its sufficient intake in the body prevents defects in the development of the neural tube and other pathologies in the fetus, which cause significant harm.
Important! The history of the discovery of folic acid began in 1926, when a specific form of anemia was discovered in pregnant patients. Translated from Latin, the term means a sheet.
Folic acid preparations usually contain several elements. The main component is vitamin B9. The rest of the ingredients do not have a significant impact.
Medicines can have a different cost, which depends on the number of tablets in the package and production. There are the following dosage of tablets in micrograms:
- 400;
- 800;
- 1000.
Folate levels determine mood. Vitamin B9 has health benefits that are manifested in the metabolism of serotonin and adrenaline, which are neurotransmitters.
The benefits of folic acid for the body
The benefits of folic acid are undeniable. Vitamin B9 is directly involved in the synthesis and metabolism of acids and amino acids.
Folic acid is beneficial in the following conditions:
- anemia associated with a lack of an element, radiation, gastrectomy and the use of drugs;
- tropical diarrhea;
- chronic tuberculosis and intestinal inflammation;
- pregnancy;
- lactation period;
- lack of an element in the body.
Therapeutic doses of folic acid are beneficial in the following cases:
- severe symptoms of B9 deficiency;
- the presence of factors leading to the lack of an element;
- the use of COCs before planning conception;
- use of Maalox, Phosphalugel, anticonvulsants;
- protein diet;
- insignificant intake of plant foods;
- violation of the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.
Important! The results of the study proved the beneficial properties of folic acid in the prevention of Alzheimer's disease.
For women
Folic acid benefits a woman's body. A sufficient intake of the substance ensures adequate functioning of the endocrine, musculoskeletal systems and the gastrointestinal tract. The benefits of vitamin B9 are in the effect on metabolic processes. Beneficial folic acid can help prevent weight gain. Thus, the element indirectly affects the cardiovascular system.
A useful component improves mood, which is especially important for PMS and climacteric changes, which are accompanied by increased nervousness, excitability and lability.
The benefits of folic acid for women over 40 are obvious. It is known that metabolism slows down with age, absorption of nutrients worsens, which is harmful to health. The beneficial properties of folic acid for women help prevent unwanted symptoms associated with hormonal changes in premenopause and menopause.
For pregnant
Folic acid is beneficial for pregnant women due to its properties. Maintaining an optimal level of the substance for several months before a planned pregnancy is essential. Adequate intake of the substance before conception reduces the risk of dangerous malformations in the child.
Attention! According to research results, in 80% of cases, there is a decrease in the likelihood of congenital malformations of the fetus when using preparations containing vitamin B9 before conception.
Experts pay attention to the fact that during pregnancy, the body needs more nutrients than before conception. The component is not stored in the body in reserve due to its properties. This indicates the need for the supply of folic acid from the outside. It is especially important to maintain an adequate amount of the vitamin during the 1st trimester. It is during this period that the laying of the internal organs and the development of the nervous system in the child takes place.
The main goal of taking a nutrient during pregnancy is to reduce the risk of neural tube defects. In addition, folic acid is involved in mitosis and cell renewal. The embryo's brain begins to develop in the second week. Even with minor micronutrient deficiencies, serious harm can occur.
Attention! The lack of an element can be harmful in the form of anomalies in the development of the nervous system. The drugs should be taken before conception in an adequate dosage. Excessive component can also be harmful.
Lack of a useful vitamin sometimes leads to postpartum depression and decreased milk supply. The nutrient level in breast milk is correspondingly reduced, which causes insufficient intake by the baby. Harm can be observed in the development of anemia, low body weight, disruption of the intestines. Folic acid is considered to be practically the only synthetic vitamin that must be taken for both therapeutic and prophylactic purposes.
For men
Folic acid is beneficial for men. Against the background of a chronic deficiency of the component, the development of certain pathologies, for example, infertility and anemia, is possible.
The main indicators of men's health include the state of the germ cells, which are understood as sperm. For their production, the body requires nucleic acids and protein. Lack of nutrient leads to impaired sperm production:
- decreased concentration and mobility;
- morphological disorders, for example, unnatural shape, absence of a tail.
Attention! Folic acid is beneficial for a man's body. With the wrong number of chromosomes, hereditary diseases in a child (Down syndrome) are not excluded.
For kids
In combination with other vitamins, microelements and macronutrients, folic acid ensures the full development of the musculoskeletal system, nervous system, and gastrointestinal tract. Insufficient intake of the substance with food and in the composition of drugs can cause harm in the form of developmental disorders of the child's body.
Vitamin B9 is essential for the male body in puberty. Due to the beneficial properties of the nutrient, secondary sexual characteristics develop, including coarsening of the voice, intensive growth and growth of hair on the body and face.
Symptoms of a lack of folic acid in the body
During thermal processing, a significant percentage of folic acid, which is found in food, is lost. Nutrient deficiency is noted with its low content in the diet, insufficient absorption, as well as with an increase in the body's needs. Hypovitaminosis can be the result of excessive drinking.
Often, a micronutrient deficiency is observed in pregnant women and infants under one year old. Lack of an element can harm the pregnant woman and the fetus in the form of the following consequences:
- miscarriage (detachment of the placenta or miscarriage);
- congenital developmental anomalies (neural tube defect);
- backwardness;
- brain pathology;
- cleft palate;
- spina bifida;
- preeclampsia and anemia in a pregnant woman;
- cleft lip.
Signs of hypovitaminosis appear within a month and depend on a balanced diet. The following symptoms are noted:
- nervousness;
- weakness;
- poor appetite;
- vomit;
- diarrhea;
- alopecia;
- mouth ulcers.
These symptoms are especially pronounced during breastfeeding. Vitamin deficiency can lead to postpartum depression.
A lack of folic acid is observed in a significant number of people. In some cases, hypovitaminosis progresses asymptomatically. In the absence of a therapeutic admission, the risk of stroke and heart attack increases significantly.
Experts also talk about the benefits of folic acid for the liver. Lack of micronutrient can be observed in case of serious organ pathologies. It is the liver that converts the vitamin into tetrahydrofolate.
Important! An element deficiency often develops as a result of diets and taking antibiotics. In the United States, the vitamin is added to flour to prevent vitamin deficiency. The prophylactic dose of the substance is 2 times higher than in the Russian Federation.
Rules for taking and dosage of folic acid
Taking folic acid can be both therapeutic and prophylactic. The dosage is recommended by the doctor, taking into account the needs of the body.
When planning a pregnancy
Prophylactic intake during pregnancy planning is 2-3 mg per day.
During pregnancy
In the absence of a deficiency in the element, the daily dose is 0.4 mg per day. The dosage is increased to 0.8 mg per day against the background of deficiency conditions.
When breastfeeding
During lactation, the required dosage of the micronutrient increases and amounts to 0.3-0.6 mg per day. A useful vitamin can be taken in the form of multivitamin complexes.
Attention! Excessive element will not harm. The excess amount is independently excreted from the female body, thanks to the properties of the nutrient.
For women over 40
A sufficient intake of micronutrient provides a decrease in the signs of climacteric changes due to its beneficial properties. Prophylactic intake involves the consumption of up to 0.3 mg of the substance once a day. The presence of hypovitaminosis can cause serious harm to the body and indicates the necessary intake of a therapeutic dose of up to 1 mg daily.
With anemia
The folate deficiency type of anemia causes harm in the form of a violation of cell maturation. The dosage of useful folacin in the development of a pathological condition varies from 1 to 5 mg.
Slimming
An additional intake of a useful nutrient is necessary when losing weight due to its properties. The prophylactic dose allows you to avoid the development of hypovitaminosis and is 400-800 mcg per day.
What foods contain folic acid
The nutrient is not synthesized by the body. A significant part of the nutrient comes from food and vitamin supplements. In case of disorders of the digestive tract, the assimilation of the element is often difficult.
The micronutrient is found mainly in plant foods, which have many beneficial properties:
- onions, spinach, dill, parsley;
- peas, beans;
- buckwheat, oats and bran;
- bananas, grapefruit, melon;
- walnut, dried apricots;
- pumpkin, beets.
A useful source of the element is meat products:
- pork;
- mutton;
- kidneys and liver;
- bird.
Dairy products and fish are distinguished by many useful properties and a sufficient content of the substance. With the use of bifidobacteria, stimulation of the formation of a nutrient in the intestine is noted.
It should be remembered that the beneficial properties of plant foods are destroyed during heat treatment and long-term storage. The breakdown of a micronutrient in meat is slower. That is why experts recommend eating plant foods in the form of salads without heat treatment. They retain the maximum useful properties.
Attention! Benefits can be expected from the consumption of tomato and orange juice, liver, containing folic acid in significant quantities.
Folic acid preparations
The beneficial vitamin B9 comes in several dosage forms.
Pills
Tablet preparations are easy to use. Experts call the following popular names:
- Folic acid (100 or 400 mg);
- Foliber (B9 and B12);
- Folic acid Doppelgerts Active (B9, C, B6, B12, E);
- Maltofer (B9 and iron);
- Fenuls zinc (B9, zinc, iron).
Important! The tablets must be taken with meals.
Ampoules
The benefits of the drug can be expected when using ampoules. The drug is used as an injection due to its properties. Each ampoule contains 400 mcg as active ingredient.
Folic acid harm and side effects
High doses of drugs are not always beneficial and can be harmful in the form of an overdose. Undesirable effects cannot be ruled out, which include:
- allergic reactions;
- bronchospasm;
- hyperthemia;
- redness of the skin;
- rash.
It has been proven that the nutrient in dosages significantly higher than the average does not cause harm in the form of toxic effects. However, the development of anemia is possible, which is associated with the properties of the substance. Overdose sometimes provokes kidney dysfunction, stool disorders, and increases anxiety.
Contraindications for taking folic acid
The element has many useful qualities and properties. There are no significant contraindications to admission. Doctors do not recommend taking folic acid supplements in the following cases:
- hypersensitivity reactions;
- deficiency of sucrose and isomaltase;
- age up to 3 years;
- intolerance to fructose.
Important! It is advisable to start taking medications after consulting a doctor so as not to cause harm.
Conclusion
The benefits and harms of folic acid have been studied extensively. The element takes part in many processes in the body. Folic acid deficiency is harmful to health, which proves the need for regular preventive intake.
Ploscylindrical tablets from pale yellow to yellow, with beveled and scored. The presence of inclusions of a darker and lighter color is allowed.
Composition
Each tablet contains active substance: folic acid - 1 mg; Excipients: icing sugar, potato starch, stearic acid.
Pharmacotherapeutic group
Antianemic agents. Folic acid and its derivatives. ATX code: B03BB01.
Pharmacological properties
Pharmacodynamics
Vitamin B (vitamin B9), can be synthesized by the intestinal microflora. In the body, folic acid is reduced to tetrahydrofolic acid, which is a coenzyme involved in various metabolic processes. It is necessary for the normal maturation of megaloblasts and the formation of normoblasts. Stimulates erythropoiesis, participates in the synthesis of amino acids (including glycine, methionine), nucleic acids, purines, pyrimidines, in the exchange of choline, histidine.
Pharmacokinetics
Folic acid, prescribed as a drug, is well and completely absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, mainly in the upper duodenum (even in the presence of malabsorption syndrome against the background of tropical sprue, at the same time, food folates are poorly absorbed in malabsorption syndrome) ... Intensively binds to plasma proteins. Penetrates the BBB, placenta and breast milk. TC max - 30 - 60 min.
It is deposited and metabolized in the liver with the formation of tetrahydrofolic acid (in the presence of ascorbic acid under the action of dihydrofolate reductase). It is excreted by the kidneys mainly in the form of metabolites; if the dose taken significantly exceeds the daily requirement for folic acid, then it is excreted unchanged. It is excreted using hemodialysis.
Do you want to have strong nerves, excellent sleep, normal hemoglobin, calmly withstand stress and less often get colds? Folic acid will help you with this. Its benefits to the body should be discussed in more detail. We suggest doing it right now.
From the life of vitamins: what duties does folic acid perform in the body? For men it is shown, for women it is necessary! How do you know when it's time to drink folacin? How much do you need? Where to look for vitamin B9 and how to take it? The effect, but not the one expected!
From the life of vitamins: what responsibilities does folic acid perform in the body?
Its other name is vitamin B9 or folacin. The positive effect of folic acid on the body was discovered back in the 30s of the last century. And people learned how to get it synthetically in the 40s of the past century. Folacin's main job is to support the growth of cells in the body. That is why its reception is especially important during periods of growth - when the baby grows up in the mother's tummy, in childhood and adolescence. But folic acid is also required for adults. The body stores this substance in the liver. And if these reserves are not replenished from the outside, then there is a deficit.
The effect of vitamin B9 on the body
- reduces the risk of stroke, heart attack, heart pathologies;
- promotes the production of enzymes that prevent the development of neoplasms;
- promotes the production of serotonin (the hormone of joy);
- guarantees the stability of the nervous system;
- promotes more productive mental activity;
- positively affects the functioning of the liver, intestines;
- strengthens the immune system;
- equalizes pressure;
- participates in the synthesis of amino acids;
- activates blood circulation;
- is directly involved in hematopoiesis;
- improves memory;
- ensures the delivery of carbon for the synthesis of hemoglobin;
- helps the body to cope with stress;
- provides the transmission of a nerve impulse;
- increases the speed of metabolic processes, stimulates active fat burning, therefore, promotes weight loss;
- gives a healthy look to hair, stops hair loss;
- improves the general condition.
For men it is shown, for women it is necessary!
Now let's consider the value of vitamin B9 separately for male and female health. Representatives of the stronger sex will benefit from all of the above healing abilities of this acid. But not only that! Folic acid will significantly improve the quality of sperm (make sperm more mobile), that is, it will increase the reproductive capacity of a man and increase the possibility of conceiving a strong and healthy baby. For young men, such a component will ensure the correct maturation, the timely appearance of secondary sexual characteristics.
Many women get acquainted with this vitamin at the stage of pregnancy planning and while carrying a baby. It is impossible to overestimate the benefits of folic acid for the body of both the expectant mother and her fetus. This substance is considered the key to the normal course of pregnancy and the birth of a healthy baby. It ensures the correct formation of the baby's neural tube and prevents the appearance of congenital anomalies of the brain, heart defects, and various anatomical defects. Folic acid also protects against premature birth.
Important! Even taking into account all its value, uncontrolled intake of this vitamin during pregnancy is strictly prohibited! Its excess can increase the possibility of developing asthma in a child!
Folacin is also required for a new mother to stabilize her emotional background and prevent the development of postpartum depression. It is very important for girls on contraception to drink folic acid, as they are usually found to be deficient in folic acid. This vitamin reduces menstrual pain, normalizes the cycle. Mature ladies also need folic acid. Its benefits for the body are associated with age-related changes. It prevents early menopause, inhibits aging, protects against gray hair and smoothes the symptoms of menopause.
How do you know when it's time to drink folacin?
Indirect evidence that the body has depleted the supply of vitamin B9 are certain symptoms. You can suspect such a problem if you are in a depressed mood all the time, experience unreasonable anxiety, fear, become scattered and forgetful. The deficiency of this substance is indicated by the bright red color of the tongue, inflammation of the oral mucosa, indigestion, and the appearance of gray hair at a fairly young age. In children, this can manifest itself as growth retardation. In adolescent girls, delayed puberty.
The indication for folic acid intake is pregnancy. But already a couple of months before the planned date of conception, future parents (both man and woman) should start drinking such a supplement. This drug is prescribed for anemia, which is caused by a lack of B9. It is used in the treatment of chronic gastroenteritis, intestinal tuberculosis, tropical diarrhea SPRU.
How much do you need?
There is no single norm. It all depends on the age and condition of the person. The amount of such a substance is measured in micrograms, which is one millionth of a gram.
Daily value of folate:
- a woman "in position" - 600 mcg;
- with lactation - 500 mcg;
- adult - 400 mcg;
- baby up to one year old - 50 mcg;
- a child under 3 years old - 100 mcg;
- from 3 to 10 years old - 150 mcg;
- adolescents - 200 mcg.
Where to look for vitamin B9 and how to take it?
One of the most important factors that "vote" for folic acid intake is that the body is not able to produce it on its own. Folate can be supplied by food. It is found in vegetable greens, nuts, vegetables (including beets, carrots, broccoli, artichoke, asparagus), barley, lentils, red fish, liver, chicken, pork, mushrooms, and fruits.
But they should only be eaten raw. Any heat treatment will reduce the content of such a substance to an insignificant amount, so it is not possible to get it from meat and fish dishes. And in vegetables and fruits, nitrates are more often found today than medicinal components.
If you cannot compensate for the need for folic acid with the help of products, then you can do this through bioactive drugs, which are sold in the pharmacy in the form of tablets, ampoules, and powder. Let's figure out how to take folic acid for the benefit of the body. The tablets have a dosage of 1 mg (1000 mcg). Their number in a package is 25-50 pcs. The standard wellness dosage for women and men is 1 tab. per day, for therapeutic purposes - from 2 to 5 tablets. in a day.
For pregnant women there is a special supplement - "folic acid 9 months", where one tablet contains 0.4 mg. Usually they are prescribed according to the following scheme: 1-2 tables. daily. Children are advised to dissolve the tablet in water and measure the required amount of the drug with a syringe.
These supplements should be drunk during or after meals in order to reduce their irritant effect on the stomach. If the next dose is accidentally missed, then a double dose should not be taken. Medicines that neutralize gastric acidity should be drunk no earlier than 2 hours after taking vitamin B9. "Tetracycline", "Neomycin", "Polymyxin" reduce the absorption of folates.
Important! It is not enough just to put folacin into the body. It is also necessary to ensure its assimilation. To do this, it should be taken in conjunction with vitamin B12.
The effect, but not the one expected!
Given such a responsible mission that this compound performs in the body, one might get the impression that the more folacin you drink, the healthier a person will become. But this is not at all the case. An excess of such a substance can not improve health, but seriously harm.
The harm from taking folacin:
- rashes on the body;
- the development of allergies;
- overexcitement, irritability;
- nightmares;
- convulsions;
- diarrhea;
- urge to vomit.
Important! Excessive intake of folic acid in the body of a smoker increases the risk of malignant formation.
There are also contraindications to folic acid intake - individual intolerance, lack of vitamin B12, hemochromatosis.
Vitamin B9, folacin, or folic acid is one of the essential substances that are essential for the life of our body. It is with its help that DNA is formed - the basis of any cell, from red blood cells to cardiomyocytes - the muscle cells of the heart. The lack of this vitamin affects the body of any person and is especially dangerous for women during pregnancy.
What is folic acid
Translated from Latin, folium means "leaf". Folic acid is so named because it was first isolated from spinach leaves. Folacin itself does not have biological activity, therefore, in the cells of the body, it undergoes biochemical transformations with the formation of several active forms.
In total, the body contains about 5-10 mg of folate. Almost half of them are in the liver, and the rest is in the kidneys, erythrocytes, bone marrow and other tissues. The blood plasma contains a small amount of active forms of folic acid. The normal concentration is 4.5–30 nmol / l. This amount reflects the current intake of vitamin B9 from food. If this compound is determined in plasma in its original, inactive form, this indicates an excess of the consumption rate.
Folic acid was once called "bacterial growth factor L. Casei", "vitamin Bc", or "chicken growth factor", "vitamin M". Only in 1941 this substance received its current name - in honor of the spinach leaf.
The role of folic acid in the human body
Folacin deficiency poses the following problems:
- Immature blood cells, megaloblasts are formed, anemia develops. The blood begins to tolerate oxygen worse, and oxygen starvation of tissues gradually increases. Weakness, shortness of breath, pallor of the skin appear.
- Intestinal cells atrophy and, as a result, stool disorders and weight loss are observed.
- Blood clotting worsens due to a violation of platelet synthesis.
- The level of immunity decreases due to a decrease in the number of leukocytes.
- The risk of atherosclerosis, stroke, blood clots increases due to increased levels of homocysteine.
- Irritability appears, memory deteriorates, depressive states develop;
- In children, folate deficiency can cause a delay in physical development.
According to a 2014 study, 96.3% of children in Europe and America had blood levels of folacin below recommended levels. This means that virtually all children suffered from latent or overt vitamin B9 deficiency.
For women, folic acid is especially needed during pregnancy. With the help of folacin, the placenta is formed. With a lack of this trace element, microcirculation in the tissues of the placenta is disrupted and the risk of complications during pregnancy is significantly increased.
For the developing fetus itself, vitamin B9 deficiency can also be critical. Its effect on the incidence of anencephaly, cerebral hernia, spina bifida, anomalies of the genitourinary system, heart defects, limbs has been proven.
Folic acid provides biochemical reactions in the body of men. Therefore, despite the opinion that folacin is a "vitamin for pregnant women", the representatives of the stronger sex need it no less than expectant mothers. This is especially true for professional athletes and bodybuilders.
Why and when to take folic acid
Normally, a person should receive about 200 micrograms of vitamin daily from food. Unfortunately, this is not always possible. The reserves of the "depot" of folic acid in the liver are enough for about 3-4 months of such a vitamin-poor diet. After that, the deficit will need to be strenuously replenished with the help of external sources. And most likely, a revision of the diet will not save the situation. Usually, in such cases, the intake of vitamins and dietary supplements is additionally prescribed.
For pregnant women, additional intake of vitamin B9 is recommended even with a full diet. This reduces the likelihood of developing anomalies of the nervous system, brain, heart, genitourinary system, defects in the arteries and cleft of the upper palate of the fetus, the risk of Down syndrome.
Vitamin-rich foods
Folic acid is found in greens, all types of cabbage, citrus fruits, liver, yeast, peanuts, asparagus, and beans. But when heated, about 80–90% of this substance is destroyed, so not all dishes rich in these products can serve as a source of vitamin.
According to some researchers, even good nutrition covers our daily need for vitamins by only 70-80%.
Folic acid medications
This type of drug is usually prescribed during pregnancy or to treat anemia.
Folic acid tablets can contain between 400 mcg and 15 mg. For pregnant women, the optimal dosage is 400-800 mcg. At higher concentrations, from 5 to 15 mg, folacin is prescribed for the treatment of folate deficiency anemia.
The main contraindication for taking any drugs is individual intolerance to the components. Before you buy a medicine or vitamins of a certain brand, you need to carefully look at the composition and study the instructions. Even drugs of the same name from different manufacturers may have a different composition.
It is undesirable to take folic acid preparations for anemia caused by vitamin B12 deficiency, as this can lead to an apparent improvement in well-being, which later will only aggravate the course of the disease. Another contraindication is cancer. On the one hand, they lead to an increased consumption of folic acid and to its lack in the body. On the other hand, it is this substance that can stimulate the active growth of tumors. Therefore, in each such case, specialist advice is needed.
Vitamin and mineral complexes (dietary supplements)
In the body, there is rarely a deficiency of any particular trace element. This is most often a complex problem. The lack of one substance leads to an increase in the consumption of another. Therefore, in order to achieve the desired biological effect and replenish the deficiency of essential substances, it is optimal to use complex additives.
Vitamin complexes for adults contain 200-1000 mcg of folic acid. They are prescribed to replenish vitamin deficiencies, for example, during illness, with increased stress, in preparation for pregnancy, or with insufficiently varied diet.
Not all multivitamins contain folic acid, so when choosing a drug, you need to carefully look at the composition. The amount of vitamins should be indicated in milligrams or micrograms, and also as a percentage of the recommended daily intake. You should not exceed the recommended rate without direct instructions from a doctor.
Before taking any dietary supplements, it is better to consult a doctor. You also need to know if there is an intolerance to certain substances or auxiliary components of these drugs. The funds can be produced in the form of tablets, capsules, effervescent soluble tablets. For children, there are vitamins in the form of gummies or animal figurines. Here you can focus on your own preferences - it is difficult for someone to swallow large capsules, someone chooses preparations with a minimum of dyes and additives, for someone, soluble forms are more convenient.
The dosage of the drug is indicated in the instructions. Someone from the manufacturer divides the daily dose into two or three doses during the day, someone puts the entire dose of active ingredients in one tablet or capsule.
Folic acid is a substance that all people need, regardless of gender and age. She is responsible for the processes of DNA formation, for the creation of new cells and for the subtle biochemical reactions that take place in the body. Folate is especially important during pregnancy. In order to avoid vitamin B9 deficiency, you need to eat a variety of foods, do not forget about herbs and vegetables. It is also advisable to take multivitamin complexes and dietary supplements.
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