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Folic acid (folate)   

Overview | Recommendations | Side Effects | Food Sources

Alternative names:

Vitamin B9; Vitamin B9 (folic acid) deficiency; Deficiency - vitamin B9 (folic acid); Folic acid (vitamin B9) deficiency; Folate; Diet - folic acid; Pteroylglutamic acid

Definition:

A water-soluble vitamin of the B-complex group.

Functions

Folic acid acts as a coenzyme (with vitamin B-12 and vitamin C) in the breakdown (metabolism) of proteins and in the synthesis of new proteins. It is necessary for the production of red blood cells and the synthesis of DNA (which controls heredity), as well as tissue growth and cell function. It also increases the appetite and stimulates the formation of digestive acids.

Synthetic folic acid supplements may be used in the treatment of disorders associated with folic acid deficiency, and may also be part of the recommended treatment for certain menstrual problems and leg ulcers.

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