10 Interesting Facts About Folic Acid
Recommended for pregnant women up to the end of the third month, but not only for them. Where is folic acid found in the foods we eat, what is its role in the body, which diseases does it combat, and why is it better to consume it as a supplement?
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1. Folic acid belongs to the B vitamin family and is found in green vegetables (mainly peas, asparagus, broccoli, parsley, and cilantro), tomatoes, peppers, legumes, breakfast cereals, and various breads.
2. To ensure the folic acid is absorbed 100% by the body, consuming these foods alone isn't sufficient, as cooking, baking, and storage processes take away about 50% of it. To consume it almost completely, combining it with a dietary supplement (consult a qualified doctor, of course) is necessary.
3. Folic acid reduces the risk of cancer, particularly breast, pancreatic, and colon cancers.
4. When folic acid is at low levels in the body, it causes many disruptions, including disorders in the construction of cells and tissues, skin, and nails.
5. Because folic acid reduces the risks of fetal malformations and fetal and infant mortality, the Ministry of Health recommends taking this essential supplement for women about three months before they become pregnant and during pregnancy (up to the end of the third month).
6. Folic acid helps maintain overall body balance, particularly in regulating the homocysteine hormone, which is responsible for the creation of amino acids and more. Too high a level of this hormone can lead to the creation of bad cholesterol (LDL) and vascular clotting and blockage.
7. Studies have shown that folic acid reduces the risk of stroke.
8. It plays a vital and crucial role in aiding the creation and enhancement of our DNA and helps delay the decline of cognitive abilities in old age.
9. The uncontrolled use of folic acid, resulting in its excess in the body, can cause a person to develop cancer. Therefore, the daily permissible intake in most cases stands at 0.4 mg for an adult and a pregnant woman (of course, consulting a doctor beforehand. Under no circumstances should you take the supplement on your own).
10. Why can excessive folic acid intake harm you? Because it is the liver that 'handles' the folic acid and is responsible for its processing and absorption, and it does so relatively slowly. Therefore, overloading it with more and more 'work' has serious implications.
