Folic acid (vitamin B9) - what it is, properties, requirement, deficiency

Folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, is essential for the formation of red blood cells. It also influences cell function and is responsible for healthy growth. Called the vitamin of mums-to-be, folic acid is crucial for early pregnancy.

Chemical, treacherous and even deadly. That's what the name folic acid sounds like, right? In reality, it is nothing to fear. The name comes from the Latin word 'folium' meaning 'leaf'. This is no coincidence, as the largest deposits of folic acid are found in leafy vegetables. Would you like to know which ones? Or are you interested in the valuable properties of vitamin B9? Are deficiencies and excesses on your agenda? You will find this and other information in this article!

Skin, hair, nails: Glow Stories

Support the healthy condition of your skin, hair and nails and protect your cells from oxidative stress!

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Glow Stories is a formula of active ingredients carefully selected in line with the latest scientific research. You'll find biotin, zinc and copper, which care for the health of your hair and radiant complexion. Zinc is also responsible for maintaining healthy nails. Smart supplementation will take care of your beauty from within.

Julia Skrajda, dietetyk kliniczny

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See also:

• B vitamins [properties + where they occur]
.
• Vitamin B1 (thiamine) [properties + where it occurs]
.
• Vitamin B2 [properties + where it occurs]
.
• Vitamin B3 [properties + where it occurs]
• Niacin [what it is + effects and side effects]
.
• Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) [what it is + properties and excess]
.
• Vitamin B6 [where it occurs + deficiency, excess and properties]
• Biotin [what it is + properties and side effects]
.
• Biotin for hair [what it gives and effects + ranking]
• Vitamin B12 [what it helps with + where it occurs]
.
• Vitamin C [properties + dosage]
.
• Magnesium [what it is in + properties]
.
• Best magnesium [ranking + pharmacist's opinion]
.

What is folic acid?

.

Folic acid (vitamin B9) is a water-soluble B vitamin. It is responsible for the formation of new cells in the body and also affects pregnancy. We are unable to produce the valuable vitamin B9, so it must be taken with the diet. Most folic acid can be found in leafy vegetables, beans or sunflower seedsand.

.

What else do we call vitamin B9?

.

Folic acid is called in many different ways. Are you confused? I'm already rushing to the answers. Folic acid and vitamin B9 are the two most common names for this compound. Interestingly, it is also referred to as vitamin B11 or folacin. Slightly less common are terms such as vitamin of mums-to-be, vitamin M or listic acidand.

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  .

Glow Stories - for healthy skin, hair and nails

.

Product with high-quality folic acid Quatrefolic®, bamboo shoot extract and ingredients that have a positive effect on skin, hair and nails.

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Sleep Well - dietary supplement for good sleep and tranquillity

.

Sleep Well is a calming and relaxing dietary supplement with a standardised complex of CALMOMIX® herbal extracts and high-quality magnesium.

See more

.

Folic acid - properties

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Despite its beautiful name, it is not the names that make vitamin B9 stand out. It's its valuable properties that make it worth taking a closer look.

How does folic acid work?

.

Influences on pregnancy health

.

Folic acid plays an important role in the development of the baby. It is responsible for cell division and tissue growth. Vitamin B9 is essential for the proper development of the spine and brain of the yet-to-be-born baby. Folic acid is also important for mothers-to-be - it reduces the risk of pre-eclampsia, as well as premature birthand.

Promotes brain health

.

Low levels of folic acid lead to impaired mental function and also increase the risk of dementia. Research suggests that vitamin B9 supplementation has a positive effect on cognitive function. Furthermore, adequate concentrations of folic acid may prevent Alzheimer's diseaseand.

Reduces risk of heart disease

.

High levels of homocysteine increase the risk of heart disease. According to research, folic acid supplementation can reduce its concentration and thus reduce the risk of heart disease. Furthermore, an analysis of a study of 80,000 people found that taking vitamin B9, reduces the risk of heart disease by 4% and the likelihood of stroke by 10%and.

Omega acids, especially omega-3 also reduce the risk of heart disease. Are you interested in these topics? Take a look at these articles!

Cures mental illnesses

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Drinking too little folic acid leads to depression, schizophrenia, as well as other mental problems. People with depression have been shown to have lower levels of vitamin B9. A review of 2022 studies suggests that folic acid supplementation alleviates symptoms of schizophrenia, postpartum depression or bipolar disorderand.

Prevents fertility problems in women

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Vitamin B9 has a positive effect on fertility. In women who supplemented with folic acid, it prevented neural tube defects and was also associated with a lower risk of infertility or pregnancy loss. Interestingly, supplement vendors assert that their products will improve sperm quality in men. Studies suggest, however, that folic acid does not increase fertility in menand.

How else does folic acid workand?

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• Reduces the risk of oesophageal cancer.
.
• Has a beneficial effect on insulin resistance.
• Performs a positive effect on insulin resistance.
• Has a positive effect on inflammation.
• Has a positive effect on inflammation.

For sucking

Dr Jacob's Melatonin + B12

4.8

• Active ingredients: melatonin, vitamin B12
• Form: sucking pastilles
.
• Dosage: 1 lozenge per day
.
• Sufficient for: 60 days
.

See price

Product description

Sweet pleasures in the evening are rather forbidden. Well, unless it's cherry lozenges with melatonin and vitamin B12, whichóre going to improve the quality of your sleep.

One tablet in the evening will shorten your sleep time and stop you waking up.

One tablet in the evening will shortenóyour time to fall asleep and stop you waking up during the night. The addition of vitamin B12 will improve the functioning of the nervous system, making you even better rested.

The following tablets will help to improve the quality of your sleep.

Pros and cons

Sweet pleasures in the evening are rather forbidden. Well, unless it's cherry lozenges with melatonin and vitamin B12, whichóre going to improve the quality of your sleep.

One tablet in the evening will shorten your sleep time and stop you waking up.

One tablet in the evening will shortenóyour time to fall asleep and stop you waking up during the night. The addition of vitamin B12 will improve the functioning of the nervous system, making you even better rested.

The following tablets will help to improve the quality of your sleep.

Additional information

Sweet pleasures in the evening are rather forbidden. Well, unless it's cherry lozenges with melatonin and vitamin B12, whichóre going to improve the quality of your sleep.

One tablet in the evening will shorten your sleep time and stop you waking up.

One tablet in the evening will shortenóyour time to fall asleep and stop you waking up during the night. The addition of vitamin B12 will improve the functioning of the nervous system, making you even better rested.

The following tablets will help to improve the quality of your sleep.

User review

Sweet pleasures in the evening are rather forbidden. Well, unless it's cherry lozenges with melatonin and vitamin B12, whichóre going to improve the quality of your sleep.

One tablet in the evening will shorten your sleep time and stop you waking up.

One tablet in the evening will shortenóyour time to fall asleep and stop you waking up during the night. The addition of vitamin B12 will improve the functioning of the nervous system, making you even better rested.

The following tablets will help to improve the quality of your sleep.

Natu.Care B-complex Formula

5.0

• Active ingredients (in the recommended portion):

  • vitamin B1 (thiamine)

  • vitamin B2 (riboflavin)

  • vitamin B3 (niacin)

  • vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid)

  • vitamin B6

  • biotin (vitamin B7)

  • folic acid (vitamin B9)

  • vitamin B12

• Who is it for and what for?

  The product is intended for adults who wish to supplement their diet with B vitamins in one cohesive formula, rather than reaching for individual preparations.

• Form:

  Capsules allow for convenient and precise use of the product as part of daily supplementation.

• Daily portion:

  The recommended daily portion is 1 capsule, taken according to the manufacturer's instructions on the packaging.

• Lasts for:

  The product lasts for 60 days of use, according to the information provided by the manufacturer.

 

 

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Product Description

B-Complex Formula is a dietary supplement containing a complete set of B vitamins, designed for the daily supplementation of adults' diets. The product has been developed as an organised form of supplementation, without combining ingredients with stimulating additives. It serves as a consistent element of daily nutritional routine.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• complete set of B vitamins in one preparation

• simple, clear formula

• convenient capsule form

Cons:

• product intended solely for adults

• pregnant women should consult usage before use

• requires regular use

 

Ideal for vegans

SOLGAR natural vitamin B12

5.0

• Active ingredients: vitamin B12
• Form: tablets 
.
• Packaging: 100 tablets
.
• Dose: 1 tablet daily
.
• Sufficient for: 100 days
.

See price

Product description

The dietary supplement is a source of valuable vitamin B12 in a form that is easily absorbed by humans - cyanocobalamin. This biologically active form of vitamin B12 has many very important protective functions for the body.

Vitamin B12 supports the functioning of the immune system. It also contributes to reducing feelings of fatigue and tiredness. Its important function is also to take part in the metabolism of homocysteine, an amino acid thatós naturally formed in the human body. 

Vitamin B12 is a very important protective function.

Pros and cons

The dietary supplement is a source of valuable vitamin B12 in a form that is easily absorbed by humans - cyanocobalamin. This biologically active form of vitamin B12 has many very important protective functions for the body.

Vitamin B12 supports the functioning of the immune system. It also contributes to reducing feelings of fatigue and tiredness. Its important function is also to take part in the metabolism of homocysteine, an amino acid thatós naturally formed in the human body. 

Vitamin B12 is a very important protective function.

Additional information

The dietary supplement is a source of valuable vitamin B12 in a form that is easily absorbed by humans - cyanocobalamin. This biologically active form of vitamin B12 has many very important protective functions for the body.

Vitamin B12 supports the functioning of the immune system. It also contributes to reducing feelings of fatigue and tiredness. Its important function is also to take part in the metabolism of homocysteine, an amino acid thatós naturally formed in the human body. 

Vitamin B12 is a very important protective function.

User review

The dietary supplement is a source of valuable vitamin B12 in a form that is easily absorbed by humans - cyanocobalamin. This biologically active form of vitamin B12 has many very important protective functions for the body.

Vitamin B12 supports the functioning of the immune system. It also contributes to reducing feelings of fatigue and tiredness. Its important function is also to take part in the metabolism of homocysteine, an amino acid thatós naturally formed in the human body. 

Vitamin B12 is a very important protective function.

High dose

Aura Herbals Vitamin B Complex drops

4.8

• Active ingredients: vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B7, B9, B12
.
• Dosage: 15 drops daily
.
• Packaging size: 30 ml (60 daily servings)
.
• Sufficient for: 2 months

See price

Product description

Vegan drops with a complex of B vitamins. A daily serving covers 100% of the requirement for these vitamins. B vitamins are important for the proper functioning of the body, especially for the nervous system, metabolism and energy production.

Pros and cons

Vegan drops with a complex of B vitamins. A daily serving covers 100% of the requirement for these vitamins. B vitamins are important for the proper functioning of the body, especially for the nervous system, metabolism and energy production.

Additional information

Vegan drops with a complex of B vitamins. A daily serving covers 100% of the requirement for these vitamins. B vitamins are important for the proper functioning of the body, especially for the nervous system, metabolism and energy production.

MyBestB12Complex+

4.8

• Active ingredients:
  A complex of all B vitamins and selected adaptogens: ashwagandha and Rhodiola rosea; plant-based vitamin B12

• For whom and why?
  For adults – supports energy levels, brain functions, the nervous system, and helps cope with stress and fatigue

• Form:
  Vegan capsules

• Daily dose:
  1 capsule in the morning, preferably during or after a meal; can be taken cyclically or daily

• Sufficient for:
  30 days of use

---

 

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Product Description

B12Complex+ MyBestPharm is a dietary supplement in capsule form, containing:

• a composition of all 8 B vitamins: thiamine (vitamin B1), riboflavin (vitamin B2), niacin, pantothenic acid, folic acid, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and biotin, 
• additionally supplemented with 4 plant extracts: from ashwagandha, rhodiola rosea, bacopa monnieri leaves, and buckwheat seeds.

The MyBestB12 Complex+ capsules are suitable for vegans as they do not contain animal-derived ingredients. The preparation uses plant-based vitamin B12 and other ingredients derived solely from plants, which are enclosed in a cellulose capsule without gelatin. 

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Comprehensive blend of all B vitamins + adaptogens – versatile supportive action

• Vegan formula – free from lactose, gluten, and fillers

• Adaptogens (ashwagandha, rhodiola rosea) help cope with stress and support brain functions

• Convenient and easy-to-swallow capsules

• Good user reviews – praised for energy effects and improved well-being

Cons:

• Dietary supplement – not a medicine; consultations required for individuals with diseases or taking medications

• Daily dose of 1 capsule – requires consistency for noticeable effects

• Not suitable for children, pregnant or breastfeeding women without consulting a doctor

• Time to effect – improvement in energy and mood usually noticeable after several weeks of use

Kenay Vitamin B-Complex LipoCellTech

4.7

• Active ingredients:
  Liposomal complex of active vitamins B¹–B₁₂ (thiamine TPP, riboflavin-5-phosphate, B6 P-5-P, B5, biotin, methylcobalamin) and NADH, PABA, and bamboo leaf extract (source of silica).

• For whom and why?
  For adults – supports energy levels, metabolism, the nervous system, cognitive functions, heart health, and body regeneration.

• Form:
  Vegetarian capsules (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose), 60 pcs.

• Daily dose:
  1 capsule between meals

• Sufficient for:
  60 days of use

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Product Description

Kenay^® Vitamin B-Complex LipoCellTech is a dietary supplement containing B vitamins in a bioavailable form. The Vcaps^®  capsule formula is suitable as a supplement to the daily diet of adults, especially those seeking vegan supplementation.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Comprehensive formula contains all active forms of B vitamins

• Liposomal technology (LipoCellTech): better absorption and utilisation of ingredients

• Content of NADH and PABA enhances the synergistic action of vitamins

• Addition of bamboo extract with silica supports tissue functions

• Product suitable for vegans, gluten-free, lactose-free, GMO-free, preservative-free, and dye-free

Cons:

• This is a supplement, not a medicine — medical consultation required for chronic diseases

• One capsule daily — requires consistent use

• Not suitable for children, pregnant or breastfeeding women without a doctor's consent

• Higher price than basic B vitamins — but justified by form and bioavailability

Now Foods B-50

4.8

• Active ingredients:
  Each capsule contains 50 mg of vitamins B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B6, B5 (pantothenic acid), 680 µg of folates (400 µg of folic acid), 50 µg of B12 (cyanocobalamin), biotin (50 µg), plus choline (50 mg), PABA (25 mg), and inositol (25 mg) – B vitamins in a form easily absorbed by the body 

• Who is it for and why?
  For adults – supports energy production, the nervous system, homocysteine metabolism, and replenishes B-vitamin deficiencies, particularly in vegans and individuals with varied diets

• Form:
  Vegan capsules (pullulan coating, vegan product)

• Daily portion:
  1 capsule daily, preferably during meals

• Sufficient for:
  100 days of use (1 package = 100 capsules)

Check Price

Product Description

Now Foods B-50 is a dietary supplement in capsule form containing a complex of B vitamins. These vitamins include: thiamine, riboflavin (vitamin B2), folic acid, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, niacin, biotin, and pantothenic acid. Additionally, it is enriched with choline and inositol.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Comprehensive, high doses of B vitamins along with choline, PABA, and inositol

• Vegan formula – free from gluten, lactose, GMO, and soy

• Supports energy production, nervous system health, and metabolism

• Non-GMO, Kosher, Halal, GMP certifications ensure quality and safety

Cons:

• Niacin (50 mg) may cause a "flush" (skin redness) in sensitive individuals

• This is a supplement, not a medication – consult a doctor for health issues

• B12 in the form of cyanocobalamin – those preferring the methylated form may seek another product

• Biotin content may affect the results of some laboratory tests – it is advisable to inform your doctor

Naturell Витамин B Комплекс Форте

4.8

• Активни съставки:
  В една таблетка: витамин B1 (3,3 mg), B2 (4,2 mg), B3 (60 mg), B5 (18 mg), B6 (4,2 mg), B7 (биотин 150 µg), B9 (фолиева киселина 600 µg) и B12 (метилкобаламин 7,5 µg) – всеки витамин представлява 300–375 % RWS.

• За кого и за какво?
  За възрастни – особено активни физически и познавателно, стресирани, възстановяващи се и вегани – поддържа енергийния метаболизъм, нервната система, имунитета и намаляване на умората.

• Форма:
  Вегански таблетки, без захар, лактоза, глутен и оцветители.

• Дневна доза:
  1 таблетка, най-добре по време на хранене.

• Достатъчно за:
  120 дни (4 месеца при дневна доза).

Провери цената

Описание на продукта

Naturell Витамин B Complex Forte е хранителна добавка под формата на таблетки с високо съдържание на витамини от група B: ниацин, пантотенова киселина, рибофлавин, витамин B6, тиамин, фолиева киселина, биотин и витамин B12. Комплексът от 8 витамина B е разработен с цел допълване на ежедневната диета на възрастни хора.

Плюсове и минуси

Плюсове:

• Съдържа пълния спектър от витамини от група B в активни форми – комплексна подкрепа практически за всички метаболитни функции.

• Метилкобаламин (форма на B12) се характеризира с по-добра бионаличност и усвояемост от организма.

• Опаковка от 120 таблетки – икономично решение за дългосрочна добавка.

• Продуктът е вегански и без алергени – без глутен, без лактоза и оцветители.

• Продуктът получава много добри отзиви – средната оценка е около 4.8–4.9/5, потребителите хвалят ефективността и добрата усвояемост.

Минуси:

• Висока доза ниацин (60 mg) може да предизвика леко „flush” (зачервяване на кожата) при чувствителни лица.

• Това е добавка, не лекарство – при здравословни проблеми се препоръчва медицинска консултация.

• Присъствието на фолати и B12 означава, че не трябва да се използват други добавки, съдържащи витамини от група B, без консултация с лекар.

• Въпреки че опаковката е икономична, голямото количество таблетки изисква систематичност и подходящо съхранение.

Hauster Homocyne

4.8

• Активни съставки:
  В една капсула: ниацин 500 mg, рибофлавин 50 mg, витамин B6 (P‑5‑P) 25 mg, биотин 1000 µg, метилкобаламин (B12) 300 µg, фолати под формата на 5‑MTHF (Quatrefolic®) 300 µg.

• За кого и за какво?
  За възрастни – помага за поддържане на нормално ниво на хомоцистеин в кръвта, което е важно за профилактика на сърдечно-съдови заболявания. Препоръчва се при повишено ниво на хомоцистеин, недостиг на фолати и при хора с мутация на гена MTHFR – особено в страни с висок дял на тази мутация.  

• Форма:
  Растителни капсули с l‑левцин и инулин – подходящи за вегани, без изкуствени добавки и пълнители, в стъклено опаковане. 

• Дневна доза:
  1 капсула дневно.

• Достатъчно за:
  120 дни употреба при препоръчителна доза.

Провери цената

Homocyne® е хранителна добавка, която е концентриран източник на кофактори. Специално подбраната формула на препарата представлява комбинация от най-добре усвоими, биоактивни форми на витамини, включително патентованата активна форма на фолиева киселина, а именно (6S)-5-Methyltetrahydrofolic (5-MTHF) Quatrefolic®, допълнена с ниацин, рибофлавин, витамин B6, B12 и биотин в високи дози.

Плюсове и минуси

Плюсове:

• Комплекс от витамини B в активни форми, включително метилкобаламин и 5‑MTHF – максимална бионаличност

• Висока доза кофактори за метаболизма на хомоцистеина – ефективна подкрепа

• Подходящ за вегани, свободен от ГМО, лактоза, глутен, консерванти и оцветители

• Стъклена опаковка – екологична и безопасна за съдържанието

• Препоръчва се при риск от хиперхомоцистеинемия и сърдечно-съдови заболявания

Минуси:

• Много високи дози витамини B – могат да предизвикат силен „flush“ (зачервяване на кожата), особено при чувствителни на ниацин

• Добавка, не лекарство – изисква консултация с лекар при хронични заболявания или прием на други лекарства

• Не се препоръчва за бременни и кърмещи жени – не използвайте без консултация

• Ефектите изискват дългосрочна терапия (няколко седмици) и мониторинг на нивото на хомоцистеина чрез изследвания

• Поради високата доза, приемането на повече от 1 капсула на ден изисква внимание

Folic acid in pregnancy

.

Folic acid is very important for the health of pregnancy. It is a true superhero that prevents numerous fetal birth defectsand.

When to adopt?

.

Contrary to appearances, vitamin B9 should not remain of interest only to pregnant ladies. Adequate levels of folic acid must be taken care of by every woman of childbearing age. Birth defects already develop during the first three to four weeks of pregnancy, when it may still be undetected. This is why it is necessary to ensure adequate folic acid concentrations even before pregnancyand.

How much vitamin B9 to take?

.

The recommended dose of folic acid for women of childbearing age does not differ from the basic recommendation and is 400 mcg per day. For the first 3 months of pregnancy, this amount will also meet the needs of the mother-to-be and the baby. Once you enter the 4th month of pregnancy, however, the dose needs to be increased. It is then necessary to take 600 mcg of vitamin B9 per dayand.

Wondering if you are pregnant? Not sure if you especially need to ensure that you are getting enough folic acid in your body? Take a look at the article on pregnancy symptoms!

What does it affect?

.

Lack of adequate folic acid during pregnancy leads to neural tube defects. The most common of these include brainlessness, i.e. incomplete development of the major components of the brain. In most cases, children with this defect are at serious risk of death. Another problem can be spina bifida leading to permanent disabilityand.

Folic acid taken during pregnancy also protects againstand:

.

.
• pornation,
.
• low birth weight,
.
• splitting of the lip and palate,
.
• restricted foetal growth,
• premature birth,
and
• premature birth,
.

See also:

• Pregnancy vitamins
.

Folic acid requirements

.

The amount of folic acid you should take each day depends on your age. What are the recommended dosages for each groupand?

*Nutrition standards for the Polish population

.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women have an increased requirement for vitamin B9. Ladies who are expecting a baby should take 600 mcg of folic acid daily. Breastfeeding women, on the other hand, only need a dose of 500 mcg of vitamin B9and.

Sources of vitamin B9

.

Carolina Król-Lach stresses that in a diet rich in vitamin B9, it is worth ensuring the presence of spinach, broccoli, savoy cabbage, as well as pulses. Inactive yeast flakes are also a valuable source and are a great substitute for cheese flavour in vegan dishes. Not keen on these foods? Check out the 10 foods richest in folic acidand!

.

.

Folic acid deficiency

.

Vitamin B9 accumulates mainly in the liver. However, its deposits are usually negligible and amount to around 5 mg. This is an amount sufficient for 3-4 monthsand. Therefore, one of the main aspects that leads to its deficiency is a poor diet. What else leads to a lack of folic acid in the body?

Causes of vitamin B9 deficiency in the bodyand:

• Excessive alcohol consumption.
.
• Diseases of the digestive system, such as celiac disease or Crohn's disease.
• Diseases of the digestive system, such as celiac disease or Crohn's disease.
• Hemolytic anaemia.
.
• Taking antiepileptic drugs or other agents that interfere with the absorption of folic acid.
.
• Eating overcooked vegetables and fruits (they then lose folic acid).
.
• Dialysis of the kidneys.
.

Alcohol abusers, cigarette smokers, pregnant women, ladies using hormonal contraception, adolescents during puberty, infants (especially those with low birth weight), seniors, and people with gastrointestinal diseases are at risk of deficiency.

Folic acid deficiency is a major concern.

Symptoms

.

One of the main symptoms of vitamin B9 deficiency is constant fatigue. However, this is not the only symptom that should cause us concern.

Symptoms of folic acid deficiencyand:

• dizziness,
.
• spiration,
.
• irritability,
.
• difficulty concentrating,
.
• disorientation,
.
• lack of energy,
.
• weakened muscles,
.
• diarrhoea,
.
• unexplained weight loss,
.

Effects

.

Deficiency of folic acid can be very dangerous in the long term. Vitamin B9 is crucial for the health of the body. Therefore, it is important to ensure its adequate concentration. Untreated folic acid deficiency leads toand:

• depression,
.
• dementia,
.
• fertility problems,
.
• reduced cognitive function,
.

Folic acid deficiencies lead to megaloblastic anaemia, digestive disorders, decreased appetite, inflammation of the membranes of the tongue or the mucous membranes of the lips (so-called "cavities" appear). 

Folic acid excess

.

Vitamin B9 excess is not common. In most cases, it is caused by taking too much in supplements. Nevertheless, taking more than 1000 mcg of folic acid per day can lead to symptoms of vitamin B9 excessand. Which ones?"

Mask vitamin B12 deficiency

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Excess vitamin B9 can lead to masking vitamin B12 deficiency. Vitamin B12 is essential for the production of red blood cells, as well as maintaining the health of the nervous system, brain or heart. Untreated B12 deficiency can result in irreversible nerve damageand.

Taking too much folic acid can mask megaloblastic anaemia, a condition caused by vitamin B12 deficiency. Symptoms that can occur with this condition include fatigue, general weakness or concentration problems .

Slows development in children

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Adequate folic acid concentrations are crucial for foetal health. Research suggests that babies whose mothers took in more than 1,000 mcg of vitamin B9 per day during pregnancy had lower developmental test scores than babies whose parents took in 400-999 mcg of folic acidand. 

What's more, high doses of folic acid taken during pregnancy have been linked to a greater risk of insulin resistance at age 9-13 years.

Increases mental decline that progresses with age

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Some studies suggest a link between high folic acid levels and mental impairment in people over 60 years of age. In contrast, other tests indicate that people with vitamin B12 deficiency and high levels of vitamin B9 had about 3.5 times the risk of loss of brain function than seniors with normal bloodand.

Folic acid - supplementation

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Most people absorb an adequate amount of folic acid with their diet. This is why supplementation is rarely necessary. It is most often recommended to pregnant and breastfeeding women. Sometimes supplements should also be supported by people who have a poor diet or suffer from diseases that interfere with the absorption of vitamin B9and.

Clinical nutritionist Julia Skrajda says the following about folic acid:

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• Folic acid is a synthetic, inactive form of folate. This means that the body can only utilise its valuable properties after the entire metabolic process. Methylfolate (the active form of vitamin B9) is much better absorbed. It is most commonly found under the name Quatrefolic®.
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• It is the best choice when it comes to folic acid supplementation. Quatrefolic® passes through the gastric barrier and is mainly absorbed in the small intestine.
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• Furthermore, it is a reduced and water-soluble form and is therefore better absorbed by mucosal cells. This translates into access to the blood and circulatory system.

How long to take?

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Folic acid is one of the water-soluble vitamins. That is why there is nothing to prevent you from taking it at any time of the day. Some doctors recommend, however, that you do so shortly after waking up. Energy production and nutrient metabolism are processes for which B vitamins are responsibleand.

Contraindications

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Despite its numerous health-promoting properties, folic acid should not be taken by everyone. Who belongs to this group?

Folic acid should not be taken byand:

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• persons who have an allergy to vitamin B9 or certain components of the supplements,
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• sufferers of vitamin B12 deficiency,
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• persons taking certain medications,
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Vitamin B9 and alcohol

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Excessive consumption of alcohol negatively affects the absorption of folic acid in the body. Furthermore, more often than not, people who consume alcohol in large quantities have a poor diet that does not provide them with adequate amounts of vitamin B9. Research suggests that four out of five people with alcohol dependence are folic acid deficientand.

Interactions of folic acid with drugs

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Vitamin B9 can interact with a variety of medications. Are you taking any medication? Under no circumstances take folic acid on your own. Only your doctor can recommend a healthy and safe supplementation for you. Who should be particularly careful?

Folic acid may interact withand:

• methotrexate,
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• pyrimethamine,
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• barbiturates,
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• antiepileptic drugs, such as phenytoin, carbamazepine or sodium valproate,
• sulfasalazine.
• sulfasalazine,
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See also:

• Blood tests [how often to perform + how to prepare]
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Summary

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