Folic acid - what is it for? Does folic acid help you lose weight? Provides folic acid intake

Everyone knows that the human body has a certain daily requirement for each vitamin and microelement. But here it is worth considering that some substances can be fully or partially synthesized by the body itself, while others can come exclusively from external sources. Folic acid (or vitamin B9) is produced by the microflora of the large intestine, but this amount is so small that it is usually not even taken into account. This component is essential to ensure the normal functioning of organs and systems, so it is important to ensure its supply. What exactly is the use of the substance and how can it be obtained? - this is what we will find out in this article.

What is folic acid good for and why is it needed

Folic acid has a general positive effect on the human body, as it ensures the normal course of the following processes:

• synthesis and maintenance of the integrity of the DNA structure;
• cell growth;
• the production of enzymes that prevent the appearance of neoplasms;
• improving the work of immune defense;
• support for the cardiovascular system;
• synthesis of amino acids;
• beneficial effect on blood formation;
• regulation of the processes of excitation and inhibition of the nervous system.

The component is mandatory included in the complex of therapy for Parkinson's disease and many other complex diseases.

Women's Health Benefits

Folic acid is one of those components that are simply necessary for the female body. First of all, the substance helps to form new cells, which contributes to the growth of hair and nails, more active renewal of the skin. A number of studies have found that ensuring adequate intake of the vitamin in the body reduces the likelihood of developing breast and ovarian cancers.

It should be borne in mind that women are more emotional, so their reaction to the events taking place around them is often quite sharp. The described vitamin is a kind of prevention of depressive states due to the fact that it is involved in the process of stimulating the production of the so-called happiness hormone - serotonin. But the deficiency of this component is a direct path to emotional depression, depression, increased fatigue and other unpleasant conditions.

Useful properties for men

The intake of all the necessary vitamins and minerals in the body is the key to good health, vitality and health. Each of the beneficial components has its own role in the human body, and folic acid is also indispensable for men in the following aspects:

• the vitamin is involved in the formation of new cells, and with its deficiency, the number of active spermatozoa is significantly reduced, which reduces the ability of a man to conceive;
• for conception, it is important to take B9 for at least three months in order to reduce the likelihood of gene mutations in future offspring;
• in adolescence, the component is necessary for the normal course of the puberty process;
  thanks to folic acid, the chances of suffering from baldness in age are reduced.

Vitamin B9- an important component of all sex dependence, and it is important to control its intake in full at any age and situation.

When planning a pregnancy

B9 in sufficient quantities is especially relevant for pregnant women, as it is in many ways the key to a successful pregnancy and normal intrauterine development of the baby. Her intake helps to achieve such positive effects:

• reduces the risk of preterm birth;
• contributes to the normalization of the emotional background in the postpartum period;
• folic acid plays a significant role in the prevention of pathologies in the development of the neural tube in a baby;
• although the substance does not help to get pregnant, it prepares the body and provides the necessary conditions for conception, which makes it necessary to take the remedy for at least a three-month period before the planned conception.

Some do not consider it necessary to take vitamin complexes both in preparation for pregnancy and during its course, but experts insist that this is no longer a risk for the mother herself, but for the unborn baby.

For the beauty of the skin of the face, hair and nails

This direction of the beneficial effects of the described component directly follows from its ability to influence the processes of active formation of new cells. The most obvious consequence of folic acid deficiency is the appearance of skin defects, often in women who are not worried about the sufficient intake of the component, white spots appear on the skin. It is for the normal renewal of the skin of the face and the whole body that B9 is needed.

Folic acid is also useful for complexion, good condition of nails and hair. In both women and men, it helps to avoid baldness, as it stimulates hair growth. Given all of the above, it is not at all surprising that the component belongs to the group of beauty vitamins.

For weight loss

In this aspect, it is worth mentioning the particular importance of the component in the metabolic functions of the body. Ensuring the normal intake of the component is not only good for health, but also for the figure: the vitamin helps to process fat cells. This effect explains why many nutritionists recommend folic acid supplementation. But it should be understood that this is not the only way to lose weight, a vitamin complex is just one element from a general system designed to help lose extra pounds.

Vitamin B9 deficiency symptoms

It is not so easy for the body to get folic acid in the right amount. Firstly, part of such an important product is lost in the presence of bad habits, such as smoking, drinking alcohol and frequent use of drugs. Poorly absorbed substance with problems in the liver. Secondly, due to the fact that this vitamin is water soluble, it is very quickly destroyed during heat treatment, at room temperature under the influence of sunlight, obtaining it from food is also a rather difficult process. With all this in mind, approximately 7-8 people out of ten have a deficiency of this component, which can be manifested by the following symptoms:

1. feeling of depression, frequent depressive moods;
2. decreased activity and performance;
3. irritability;
4. insomnia;
5. fast fatiguability;
6. headache;
7. noticeable memory impairment;
8. fetal developmental defects or frequent, causeless cases of abortion.

An acute shortage of a component usually turns into open hostility and aggressiveness towards the outside world, a sharp weight loss, loss of appetite. In especially difficult cases, psychological disorders can even develop - various kinds of mania or paranoia.

Deficiency can occur only when sufficient intake of the component has not been observed for more than a month. After 4 months of this condition, anemia develops, due to which the processes of formation of blood cells in the bone marrow are disrupted.

Instructions for use of vitamin B9 and dosage

To maintain your health, it is important to ensure at least a minimum intake of the vitamin in the body. For an adult, this lower limit is 200 mcg, optimal - up to 400 mcg. Obtaining a good result requires regular intake of the tablet form of vitamin release, otherwise the effect will not be persistent. It is worth considering that an additional intake of folic acid is necessary under conditions of increased mental and physical stress, during diseases and stressful situations. In such situations, the minimum is increased to 300-400 mcg (this is especially important for people who are in professional sports).

Preparations with this component should be taken either during meals or immediately after once a day. The recommended duration of the prophylactic course is from two to three months.

How to take pregnant

Vitamin B9 is important for the development of the fetus, and during pregnancy, a woman's need for this component increases by 2-3 times. Prescribing a specific dose should be handled by the doctor who leads the pregnancy, and the usual dosage is 500-800 mcg. In the 1st trimester, an increased dose is most relevant, after which it can be reduced. Do not be afraid of such large numbers - the excess of the component is easily excreted by the body, and an overdose is possible only if you take about three dozen tablets at once.

Method of application for children

For a child, the rate of acid intake is determined by his specific age. So, for example, up to a year it should be supplied in an amount of 50 mcg, up to 6 years the dosage increases to 100 mcg, in the period up to 10 years - 150 mcg, and, finally, over 12, a dose of 200 mcg is relevant. The main indication for use is usually the prevention of deficiency.

How to drink folic acid in its deficiency in the body

The lack of a component must be replenished systematically, without leaning on the intake of the vitamin immediately in large quantities. It will be enough to purchase the drug in tablets and take it according to the rules described in the instructions. Eliminate and prevent the state of deficiency can only be the systematic use of supplements and correction of eating style, which implies an increase in the number of useful products.

What foods contain folic acid

Vitamin B9 is found in food, but it is worth remembering that it is almost completely destroyed during heat treatment, so if possible, they are eaten fresh. A distinctive feature of most foods rich in B9 is a rich, dark green color. The list looks like this:

• celery, spinach, different types of cabbage and green onions;
• walnuts;
• tomatoes;
• citrus fruits and watermelons;
• cereals, yeast;
• germinated wheat seeds;
• beets, etc.

Also, the component is present in the composition of dairy products, egg yolks, sea fish and beef liver. It is worth mentioning that B9 is effectively absorbed only in the presence of a sufficient amount of vitamin B 12, so nutrition must take into account and maintain this balance.

Names of preparations containing folic acid

You can buy useful vitamins with folic acid at any pharmacy, and the component can be either the only active component of the composition, or be among others. The simplest and most affordable remedy has a similar name - Folic acid tablets. Among the ingredients of such an additive is only vitamin B9 (usually in the amount of 1 mg per tablet) and auxiliary components.

You can find the vitamin in complex vitamin supplements, for example:

• Complivit;
• Doppelhertz active;
• Foliber (a product containing B9 and 12);
• Maltofer;
• Folic acid "9 months";
• Efalar (Folic acid + B6 + B12).

Given the increased need for the component when carrying a baby, specialized vitamin complexes are prescribed for this period, for example:

• Complivit Mom;
• Vitrum Prenatal Forte;
• Alphabet Mom's health;
• Pregnavit.

Harm and side effects of taking vitamin B9

Taking folic acid over a long period of time can cause some harm to the body, even though there is no accumulation effect. So, stimulation of estrogen production for a woman is undoubtedly useful for conception, but up to a certain limit. Excessive growth of the endometrium is an ideal platform for the development of neoplasms in the uterus. Normalization of endorphin production is also good in moderation - its increased amount leads to overexcitation, which is accompanied by irritability, sleep problems, and even the occurrence of panic attacks. Side effects may affect the functioning of the kidneys, the immune system, and the digestive tract.

Overdose

Given that this vitamin is among the water-soluble, its excess is usually simply excreted from the body, but the situation of an overdose is still possible - when taking an increased dose for a long time. It was previously thought that there was no harm from vitamin B9, no matter how much it was taken, but recent studies have shown that if an overdose occurs during pregnancy, then the risk of having a baby with a tendency to bronchial asthma and frequent colds increases.

Excessive intake of this substance in case of problems with the cardiovascular system can lead to the development of coronary insufficiency and heart attack in the future. In the presence of megaloblastic anemia, a large amount of the described substance can help to hide symptoms and imperceptibly aggravate the disease.

And although direct harm to a healthy person from an overdose is not described, if such symptoms occur, it is better to seek medical help:

• metallic taste;
• rash on the body;
• digestive problems;
• increased irritability;
• sleep disorders.

Contraindications to the use of folic acid

The only unequivocal contraindication to the use of folic acid is hypersensitivity to it, which depends on the individual characteristics of the patient's body. However, there are several situations in which the use of the substance is carried out with extreme caution, namely:

• forms of anemia associated with a lack of vitamin B 12;
• violation of iron metabolism in the body;
• childhood;
• the presence of malignant neoplasms.

Folic acid and folate- It is the same? What is the difference between these substances. And why it should be important for pregnancy planning.

Perhaps the most common vitamin, besides of course multivitamins and iron, folic acid is prescribed to all pregnant women. Now it is prescribed even to those who are just about to get pregnant.

The reason is very important - it is the prevention of birth defects of the neural tube of the fetus. This vitamin is especially important in the first trimester of pregnancy.

And only recently I found out that it turns out that Folic acid and Folate - or the natural substance that we get in food - are completely different things.

me as a girl for which the topic of pregnancy is starting to become very relevant, it became interesting - so what is it better for me to take - Folic acid, which doctors prescribe or natural form - Folate.

Folic Acid and Folate: What's the Difference?

It turns out that these 2 substances, in principle, are not the same thing.

folate is a general term used for a group of water-soluble B vitamins, also known by the acronym "Vitamin B-9". It is this substance that is found in nature and products naturally.

Folic acid- This is an oxidized synthetic substance that can only be found in vitamin complexes and supplements. It was synthesized relatively recently, in 1943, and does not occur naturally in nature.

Let's now look at their mechanism of action.

Folate enters our body under the guise of Tetrahydrofolate. This form is formed during the natural metabolism of Folate in the small intestine mucosa.

Folic acid, on the other hand, first goes through the process of lowering and methylation in our liver, where it is converted into a biologically active form Tetrahydrofolate needs a special enzyme Dehydrofolate Reductase.

Problems can start when our body does not have enough of this enzyme in the liver or when we take large amounts of Folic Acid (such as during pregnancy), which leads to unnatural and abnormal levels. unmetabolized folic acid in the blood.

What can a high level of Folic Acid in our body lead to? Studies show that this increases the risk of developing malignant tumors. Other research indicates that excess folic acid leads to anemia.

So what to do?

If you don't eat enough liver and greens, you are more likely to have a folate deficiency during pregnancy.

And even if you eat liver, spinach, parsley, broccoli, cauliflower, beets almost every day (a very good source of not only Folate, but also beneficial bacteria necessary to create a normal microflora, which we will pass on to our baby at birth ), peas - anyway, for the sake of, so to speak, prevention, it is best to take Folate before getting pregnant and during pregnancy.

Look carefully at the ingredients of your prenatal multivitamin, most of them contain Folic Acid. For myself, I have already decided that I will take this complex, the vitamins and minerals of which are extracted from food sources, and not synthesized synthetically. This organic complex contains Folate, not folic acid. The only negative of this multivitamin is the lack of folate. Therefore, you can still take Folate separately, it can be found under the name 5- Methyltetrahydrofolate or 5-MTHF. For example here this .

I plan to start taking Folate not during pregnancy, but a few months before it, that is, one might say, during pregnancy planning. The normal dosage is 800-1200 micrograms per day.

Of course, in the end, it's up to you whether you take Folic Acid or Folate. I, as an adherent of everything natural and natural, have already decided that I will give preference to Folate and I will take it, of course, along with products rich in it.

Did you know about the difference between folic acid and folate? What is preferable for you? As always, I'd love to hear your opinion!

* Important: Dear readers! All links to the iherb website contain my personal referral code. This means that if you visit this link and order from the iherb website or enter HPM730 when ordering in a special field (referral code), you get a 5% discount on your entire order, I get a small commission for this (this has absolutely no effect on the price of your order).

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The benefits of folic acid have been known for a long time. Doctors have been recommending that patients take a synthetic form of vitamin B9, folic acid, for years.

How Folic Acid Helps

Basic action- Responsible for DNA synthesis and cell integrity. Participates in vital processes in the body, especially in the synthesis of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets and amino acids, as well as in the synthesis of RNA (ribonucleic acids).

Indicated for use during drug therapy for anorexia, hyperpigmentation, fever.

Helps the complete absorption of protein and promotes the secretion of serotonin. Important for the heart, liver, bones, eyes and nervous system. In more detail, about the use of folic acid in specific diseases, we will introduce you in this useful material.

Folic Acid Products

Since our body is not able to create folic acid, it is important to be aware of the content of vitamin B9 in foods. If your breakfast consists of cereal with milk and a glass of orange juice, then this set will give the body 50% of the daily requirement of vitamin B9.

Vitamin B9 is rapidly degraded upon contact with sunlight and when the product is cooked. Folic acid in plant foods is especially rapidly destroyed. Therefore, in order to preserve the vitamin in the listed products, it is recommended to consume them raw.

An interesting fact is that it is found in large quantities in fresh milk, but after pasteurization it decreases.

Table of main foods rich in folic acid

Indications for use

With anemia

With anemia, folic acid is needed for a stimulating effect on the synthesis of red blood cells.
The standard dose in this case is 400 mcg. Improvement is recorded by periodic blood tests.

Vitamin improves the condition of patients with sickle cell anemia. This pathology is caused by genetics. In this case, specialized advice on taking folic acid is required. The dose is determined individually.

In a study of patients with sickle cell anemia, folic acid, garlic extract, vitamin C and E showed significant improvement.

With low hemoglobin

With low hemoglobin, folic acid plays a decisive role in its increase. Low levels of hemoglobin lead to a deficiency of B vitamins.

One possible way to increase low hemoglobin levels is with folic acid. The standard dose is 0.4 mg-0.8 mg.

Against acne and aphtha

One of the factors in the appearance of aphthosis is a lack of vitamin B9 and zinc, and for acne, vitamin B9 and iron.

As a rule, aphthae occur together with cracks on the lips - this is due to a deficiency of vitamins and trace elements involved in blood circulation. Therefore, for the treatment of aphthosis and acne, experts recommend combinations of vitamin B9, zinc and iron.

In both cases, admission is required for at least a month. The daily dose is 500 mcg.

With aphtha and acne, it is recommended to take folic acid in three doses. In addition, 10 mg of iron can be taken daily for 120-180 days. Cyanocobalamin (vitamin B12) - 1 mg is administered every 30 days to patients with aphthae. During treatment, you need to regularly check the level of cyanocobalamin.

With schizophrenia

In schizophrenia, folic acid deficiency leads to a deterioration in a person's condition. The dosage in this case is from 10 to 20 mg per day, always under the supervision of a physician. People with this diagnosis are prone to vitamin B9 deficiency and it is vital to get it.

Atherosclerosis

In recent years, doctors have claimed that folic acid is also effective in preventing atherosclerosis. The main cause of this disease is high blood pressure, high cholesterol and homocysteine ​​(a non-proteinogenic amino acid - HSCH 2 CH 2 CH(NH 2)CO 2 H).

In the body, homocysteine ​​accumulates after eating proteins. Not every body is able to process it. As a result, it accumulates, becomes toxic and affects the heart, liver and other organs.

Thanks to folic acid, enzymes are formed that lead to the transformation of homocysteine ​​into methionine (aliphatic sulfur-containing α-amino acid - HO 2 CCH (NH 2) CH 2 CH 2 SCH 3).

The lack of this acid causes a deficiency of the corresponding enzyme. As a result, excess homocysteine ​​is not processed and accumulates in the blood. The walls of blood vessels are destroyed, which leads to the development of atherosclerosis. After this diagnosis, a number of complications appear - myocardial ischemia, heart attack and stroke.

To avoid a negative scenario, regularly take folic acid in the amount of 400 micrograms.

Does it help in the treatment of cancer?

Vitamin B9 prevents cancer, according to some scientists. But when the disease has already begun, the synthetic vitamin is not taken because it facilitates the division of cancer cells. In such situations, drugs are used that delay the activity of vitamin B9, such as methotrexate. This drug inhibits (suppresses) tumor growth.

To eliminate metabolic disorders, a drug is prescribed that replaces vitamin B9 - folinic acid (note, NOT FOLIC ACID). It is a derivative of the metabolite of tetrahydrofolic acid. We are talking about the drug Leucovorin, which is based on folic acid. It has been successfully used as part of a chemotherapy course for cancer. Reduces the severity of intoxication after cytostatic therapy.

Since the risk of developing cancer increases with age, it is not recommended to take folic acid without consulting a doctor. But those who take vitamin B9 on a regular basis, at a younger age, significantly reduce their chances of developing cancer. It is noted that women can reduce the risk of colon cancer by 80% if they regularly take the vitamin in their youth.

The same goes for breast cancer. Folic acid should be taken by girls in order to protect themselves from oncological pathologies at a more mature age.

Admission for other diseases

• Folic acid should be taken by women with abnormal cytoplasmic smear results(white discharge and other vaginal infections). The dosage is 0.10 mg per day. As a result of the reception, the vaginal microflora is normalized and possible complications are eliminated.
• Patients with ulcerative colitis and those who abuse alcohol can rely on folic acid. The daily dose is 400 mcg. While taking folic acid, you need to completely abandon alcohol.
• At celiac disease (celiac disease)- folic acid corrects this problem. This is due to abnormalities in the body caused by nutritional deficiencies. The doctor prescribes the correct dosage and drug. Be careful, as most folic acid supplements contain gluten in the form of wheat starch.
• Bad breath and gum disease- two other problems that folic acid solves with ease. Instructions for use in these cases - dilute 5 ml of liquid folic acid with a little water and rinse your mouth thoroughly twice a day. Repeat the procedure for 60-70 days.
• At higher risk heart attack, the dosage exceeds the standard - from 500 to 800 mcg per day.
• With preeclampsia, you also need to take folic acid daily - 5 mg. And to lower homocysteine ​​levels, it is better to combine with vitamin B6, thereby reducing the risk of subsequent complications.
• For osteoporosis, folic acid is given in combination with vitamin B6. It is recommended to take 5 mg of folic acid every day. Often causes osteoporosis - homocystinuria - a condition associated with high levels of homocysteine. Folic acid reduces this enzyme and helps prevent osteoporosis. Vitamin B6 is involved in the formation of collagen. Without it, the bones are not strong enough. The recommended dose for osteoporosis and osteochondrosis is once a day 5 mg of vitamin B9, 50 mg of vitamin B6.
• For migraine, the dosage is 5 mg folic acid per day. Regular intake reduces the frequency of seizures, even in people with high homocysteine ​​levels.
• For skin ulcers, folic acid is taken as prescribed by your doctor. It promotes healing and improves blood circulation. Since chronic skin ulcers are mainly due to poor circulation, large amounts of folic acid are given orally (by mouth) or by injection.
• At macular degeneration, often prescribe a combination of vitamins: B6, B12 and folic acid. In this case, acid is needed in an amount of 250 mcg, vitamin B6 - 500 mcg, vitamin B12 - 1000 mcg. Studies have shown that taking these vitamins reduces the risk of age-related macular degeneration.
• At viral hepatitis, folic acid is also recommended - it is possible in the form of injections. The dosage is 5 mg and is taken 3 times a day for 10 days. Then 5 mg once a day until symptoms disappear.
• When the symptoms spasms of the intestines occur in alternating constipation and diarrhea, together with bloating - folic acid is simply irreplaceable. Its absence leads to chronic constipation, which provokes intestinal spasms. With such disorders, you need to take 0.10 mg once a day. After 15-20 days, if no improvement is felt, the dosage is increased to 0.20-0.60 mg per day. When a positive effect occurs, the dose should be gradually reduced. During the course of admission, you need to regularly monitor the level of zinc. It is recommended to add oat bran to the diet.
• Folic acid is essential for people with epilepsy. After an attack, its level in the brain decreases. Anticonvulsant drugs also reduce its concentration in the blood plasma, and seizures become frequent and painful. For epilepsy, folic acid is taken 5 mg once a day, but only after consulting a doctor.

For hair loss

Folic acid is also prescribed to improve the condition of the hair - especially for hair loss. Vitamin deficiency affects the appearance and health of the hair.

Tablets are taken within two weeks. Then a break - 10 days, then another course follows. Take the pills every day at the same time after meals and hair loss will stop. Also use liquid folic acid and add it to your homemade hair mask.

Pregnant

Carrying and giving birth to a healthy child is not an easy task for a woman. The conception and bearing of the fetus is influenced by external and internal causes, but the key factor is the state of the body of the future mother, the presence in it of a sufficient supply of vitamins and trace elements necessary for the baby to develop all systems and organs.

The body is not able to produce folic acid on its own, but since it is an important component of many fundamental metabolic processes, the need to replenish its reserves from the outside is always relevant.

How much folic acid to take before pregnancy. Daily dose

Folic acid is recommended for pregnant women. Often it is even called the female vitamin. But folic acid deficiency must be replenished before pregnancy. This is important for the female reproductive system, as folic acid improves the functioning of the body and helps to get pregnant.

For women with reproductive problems, it is mandatory. The dose is 400 mcg - 800 mcg per day. The exact dosage is determined by the doctor.

Those who are planning a pregnancy should include folic acid in the regimen three months before conception. Taking a vitamin before pregnancy is considered necessary for another reason - it reduces the risk of congenital malformations in the fetus.

Folic acid for pregnant women

The body of a pregnant woman has a special need for folic acid (vitamin B9), and the use of this vitamin long before a planned pregnancy practically eliminates the likelihood of improper formation of the brain and nervous systems, as well as other vital organs of the baby. Also during pregnancy, it is useful to consume foods containing B9 in large quantities - all varieties of legumes, green lettuce.

When pregnancy has already occurred, synthetic vitamin B9 does not need to be stopped.

During pregnancy, a woman's body consumes more folic acid than before conception. The vitamin is not stored in reserve in the body, so it is very important, especially for pregnant women, to receive it daily from external sources.

Folic acid plays the most important role in the development of the neural tube of the fetus. Participates in the renewal and mitosis of cells in a woman's body.

After the second week of pregnancy, the brain begins to actively develop in the embryo. During this period, even a minimal deficiency of vitamin B9 threatens with serious and irreversible consequences.

Since at this stage folic acid is involved in cell mitosis, a deficiency will lead to abnormalities in the fetal nervous system.

Do not forget that valuable folic acid is involved in the production of the main blood cells (erythrocytes, leukocytes and platelets). In this sense, it is important not only for the mother's body, but also for the fetus.

It also protects against spina bifida, another good reason to take it while pregnant.

And as a bonus effect of taking folic acid during pregnancy, there is another positive feature - in mothers who took it, a milder form of postpartum depression.

According to global practice, the body's daily need for vitamin B9 is 400 mcg. However, this vitamin should not be abused, since its accumulation in large quantities can provoke allergic reactions in the mother and weaken the immune system in the unborn child.

How long to drink

The duration of folic acid intake during pregnancy is determined by a specialist. Mostly recommended in the first trimester of pregnancy. During this period, the nervous system of the fetus develops.

Who needs vitamin B9 in the first place

In addition to generally accepted norms, there are female risk groups for which the use of folic acid in sufficient quantities is vital, namely:

• Pregnant women with early toxicosis;
• Age group of expectant mothers, under eighteen and over thirty-five;
• Women who are overweight by 25 percent or more, or who are underweight;
• Vegetarians or those who eat malnourished;
• Pregnant women with two or more children;
• With repeated pregnancy with an interval of less than two years;
• With diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, myopia, hypertension and those whose pregnancy is at risk of interruption.

Reception to prevent miscarriage and after an abortion

Folic acid has another really valuable property - it protects against miscarriage. Provides valuable substances, not only for the development of the fetus and the comfort of the mother, but also for the well-being of the placenta. A healthy placenta is a necessary condition for the restoration of pregnancy.

When there are prerequisites for such an unfavorable outcome for the patient, the gynecologist may prescribe a double dose of the vitamin - 0.8 mg. As a rule, no-shpa or drotaverine is added to the reception in this case.

Folic acid is also important for quick recovery after an abortion. At the discretion of the doctor, he may prescribe higher doses and a longer period of administration. The standard dose is 0.4 mg.

For women who have already terminated a pregnancy, it is mandatory to take folic acid at least three months before planning a pregnancy.

How to choose the right vitamins

When choosing vitamins, you need to consider that buying complex vitamins will be much cheaper than buying various vitamins separately. But at the same time, it is worth paying attention to the fact that as part of the complex, the amount of vitamin B9 complies with general standards. It is preferable to choose exactly medicinal complexes, rather than food fortified supplements, since their effectiveness in most cases has not been proven, and the amount and uniform intake of vitamins in the body does not always correspond to the declared characteristics and advertised benefits.

For men

Vitamin B9 is important not only for women but also for men. With its chronic shortage, males can develop a number of pathologies, including infertility and megaloblastic anemia (Addison-Birmer disease).

Adding folic acid to the diet eliminates these complications.

The main indicator of male health is the state of his seminal fluid. Nucleic acid is required for its synthesis.

With a lack of vitamin B9, this synthesis does not proceed normally. The quality of spermatozoa deteriorates. They may have an unnatural shape. Their mobility is reduced.

But worst of all, seminal fluid can have the wrong number of chromosomes. It is a major factor in hereditary diseases in children (eg Down's syndrome).

Folic acid is also beneficial for teenage boys. It plays an important role in the formation of distinctive sexual characteristics in both sexes.

For men, the standard dose is 0.4 mg per day.

How to give to children

To ensure the proper development of the child, a significant amount of folic acid is required.

Its absence causes many pathologies, including various types of anemia. When taking insufficient amounts of folic acid, the child may develop anemia, even with high levels of hemoglobin.

Children, especially if they are stunted, should be taken. A more delicate situation when breastfeeding a child. If the mother takes folic acid and foods rich in vitamin B9, taking the vitamin may cause side effects in the baby. An allergy may occur.

Doses of folic acid for children depending on age:

• 0-12 months - 50 mcg;
• 1-3 years - 70 mcg;
• 4-6 years - 100 mcg;
• 6-10 years - 150 mcg;
• Over 11 years - a dose of 200 micrograms may be prescribed.

Increased folic acid intake is often associated with a high risk of developing autism. Therefore, be careful when giving it to children, as well as during pregnancy.

Folic acid with alcohol and other interactions

Taking folacin, as this acid is also called, is unacceptable with alcohol. You need to give up alcoholic beverages.

The reason is that alcohol inhibits the synthesis and absorption of folacin. Regular drinkers are severely deficient in vitamin B9. For them, admission is required.

Some drugs affect the absorption, excretion, and storage of vitamin B9 in the body. Such as: acetylsalicylic acid (used in high doses); nitrofurans (drink with urinary tract infections); oral contraceptives and glucocorticoids.

The effect of folacin is also reduced by the use of painkillers, anticonvulsants, antacids, cholestyramine, sulfonamides, antibiotics, and cytotoxic drugs.

Folic Acid Weight Gain: Why It Happens

You may gain weight as a result of taking the synthetic form of vitamin B9.
It is curious in this case that some gain extra pounds without changing their diet.

Experts attribute weight gain from folic acid to increased appetite. This is approximately 2 to 5 kilograms.

Side effects and overdose

Possible side effects from taking folic acid are expressed in allergic reactions, bronchospasm, erythema and rash.

No toxic effects on the human body have been established. However, continuous intake (more than 90 days) of vitamin B9 at higher doses may lead to a decrease in blood levels of cyanocobalamin. This is a possible cause of anemia.

Higher doses of the vitamin may cause gastrointestinal disturbances and increased anxiety. Perhaps this will lead to an imbalance in renal activity.
Overdose happens very rarely. Excess folic acid is released without causing harm to the body.

Long-term use of vitamin B9 can lead to the latent progression of severe neurological disorders caused by the absence of cyanocobalamin.

Taking folic acid in higher doses during pregnancy is the reason babies are born with weak immune systems. The trend is that more and more children are predisposed to asthma.
Higher doses of vitamin B9 may cause dyspepsia or irritability. Especially in children.

Those who want to give birth and raise a healthy child, have gorgeous hair and nails, shine with beauty, cannot do without this amazing vitamin. Indispensable from birth to old age, it can enter the body with products, in the form of finished drugs. You need to understand how folic acid works, what is its benefit.

Benefits of folic acid

This water-soluble vitamin belongs to group B, comes from food, a small amount is produced by the body - often this is enough for normal functioning. Sometimes you have to take the substance to the required level in a synthetic form. Why is folic acid useful, why is so much attention paid to its quantity and presence?

Vitamin B9 - another name for this substance - helps to solve many problems. Its use helps:

• prepare for conception;
• give birth to a healthy child;
• improve memory;
• slow down aging;
• grow the child's body;
• alleviate the symptoms of menopause;
• relieve irritability;
• prevent the formation of blood clots;
• get rid of anemia;
• normalize the psyche.

It is equally bad for a person to have a deficiency of this substance or an excess. When a vitamin is deficient:

• fatigue comes quickly;
• hair loss begins;
• nails break;
• anemia occurs;
• increased thrombus formation;
• in women, symptoms worsen during menopause;
• in men, sperm motility is impaired;
• a child is born with pathologies.

In case of an overdose of this substance, unpleasant symptoms and serious consequences may appear:

• bitterness, taste of metal in the mouth;
• nausea;
• flatulence;
• vomit;
• diarrhea;
• increased excitability;
• deficiency of zinc, vitamin B12;
• growth of cancer cells;
• violations of the kidneys;
• mental disorder in the elderly;
• development of breast adenocarcinoma;
• occurrence of prostate cancer.

This vitamin is indispensable in solving issues of female beauty. Affordable price helps to use the drug in cosmetology, in addition to ingestion, for the preparation of masks and therapeutic solutions. The tool is used for:

• fight against age spots;
• counteracting hair loss;
• maintaining skin freshness;
• prevent the appearance of wrinkles;
• strengthening nails.

The action of folic acid

Although this drug is available, has a low price, it is indispensable for the body, it greatly affects its work. This vitamin has the following properties:

• takes part in active cell division - helps skin renewal, growth and development of the fetus;
• promotes the processes of hematopoiesis;
• protects the walls of blood vessels, preventing the formation of blood clots.

Equally important is the participation of vitamin B9 for the processes:

• DNA formation - the transfer of hereditary traits;
• carbohydrate, fat metabolism;
• increase immunity;
• synthesis of amino acids;
• the production of enzymes that counteract the formation of tumors;
• muscle recovery in athletes;
• production of hydrochloric acid;
• absorption of iron;
• exchange of adrenaline, serotonin.

Folic acid - instruction

The drug is produced in the form of ampoules for injections, tablets, is part of the complexes of multivitamins and dietary supplements. The vitamin is well absorbed, has compatibility with many drugs. How much should this substance be taken? Instructions for use of folic acid recommends a daily dosage for an adult of 400 mcg. It increases during pregnancy, the complex course of diseases.

Vitamin B9 should be taken as prescribed by a doctor - there are side effects, contraindications for use. Perhaps the appearance of a rash, itching, redness of the skin, bronchospasm. It is not recommended to use the drug in the presence of:

• iron metabolism disorders;
• substance intolerance;
• poor absorption of vitamin B12;
• malignant neoplasms.

Indications for use are:

• anemia;
• infertility;
• rheumatoid arthritis;
• gastroenteritis;
• atherosclerosis;
• mammary cancer;
• schizophrenia;
• migraine;
• osteoporosis;
• weakening of the intellect;
• menopause;
• preparation for conception;
• pregnancy;
• lactation period;
• depression.

During pregnancy

The period of expectation of a child is a huge change in the body. Why do pregnant women need folic acid, why is it necessary to take it? This is due to the formation in the first months of the systems and organs of the fetus. Vitamin B9 for pregnant women helps:

• tissue growth due to cell division;
• transmission of hereditary traits;
• development of nervous tissue;
• the formation of placental vessels;
• creation of the hematopoietic system.

How much vitamin does a pregnant woman need? The woman's body functions for two, and the dosage increases proportionally. It is very convenient that the drug has an affordable price - it is difficult to get the necessary portion of the substance from the products. The daily dosage for a pregnant woman should be 800 mcg. At this time, the drug is prescribed in the form:

• tablets;
• vitamin complexes;
• dietary supplements.

If there is a deficiency of vitamin B9 in the body, the woman and the child may have problems:

• violation of hematopoiesis;
• neural tube defects;
• tendency to thrombosis;
• decreased immunity;
• mental retardation;
• miscarriage;
• the birth of a stillborn child;
• congenital deformities;
• fetal oxygen starvation.

When planning a pregnancy

In order to exclude malformations, a woman needs to plan a pregnancy - start taking the drug three months before conception. This will help to accumulate the required amount for a period of increased stress on the female body. The dosage of folic acid when planning a pregnancy is 400 mcg per day, which will help to avoid complications.

For men

Vitamin intake is important for the male body already in adolescence for proper puberty. With its deficiency, problems with the nervous system and memory are possible. Folic acid is also important for men because it is responsible for the properties - the number, motility of spermatozoa. With a deficiency of the substance, infertility, the development of atherosclerosis are likely.

children

How much and from what age to give this vitamin to children, the pediatrician decides. The price of the drug is affordable, and the importance for the development of the body is enormous. To obtain the required dosage, a folic acid tablet for children is diluted with water, the required amount is drawn up with a syringe. The substance helps:

• body growth;
• creating immunity;
• organ formation.

Folic acid belongs to the group of water-soluble vitamins. The first people to discover folic acid are Wils and Mehta, and their discovery is called the Wils Factor. Initially, this vitamin was used in India as a remedy that heals women in position from anemia.

Later, useful vitamin B9 began to be extracted from spinach leaves and gave it its own name - folic acid.. Animals and humans cannot obtain this vitamin themselves, as some types of bacteria and yeast do, and therefore they need to select a diet that will contain a large amount of this vitamin. The composition of folic acid itself is attributed to the synthetic form of vitamin B9, such a vitamin can be easily found in everyday products. And also the vitamin is sold in pharmacy stores in the form of various supplements and medicines. Folic acid, under the action of body cells, is converted into a biologically active form, which is called tetrahydrofolic acid.

Who benefits from folic acid?

Folic acid and reactions, which occur under its influence, are the basis for the production of DNA cells and for maintaining their level in the body. So, the use of folic acid affects the development and synthesis of cells, and also helps protect the body from germs and infectious agents. In addition to all this, the drug has a positive effect on the body, protecting it from the development of tumor diseases.

The most common causes of poor metabolism are: insufficient levels of folic acid in the body, long-term use of drugs, smoking and alcohol consumption, as well as various mutations at the gene level. Vitamin B9 deficiency is especially noticeable in certain populations, for example: pregnant and lactating women, women aged 25–44, adolescents and people of retirement age.

Particular attention should be paid to maintaining the level of the vitamin in the body during pregnancy, since at this time the placenta and the growing body of the child require the most folate. Vitamin deficiency can develop into amnesia, and also manifest itself in the form of diarrhea, nausea, fever, inflammation of the mouth. The cost of the drug is quite low, and it can also be found and purchased at any pharmacy, which is not difficult.

Indications for the use of folic acid were published in 1998 by the National Academy, the instructions included a detailed dosage of the drug. The optimal dose of the drug reaches 400 mcg for men and women, the daily minimum rate per person reaches 200 mcg.

Taking acid is especially recommended for women of childbearing age, the dosage of the drug should reach up to 400 micrograms per day through the intake of food or pharmaceutical preparations. Also important, it can be called, is the use of a vitamin at the time of conception, since the result of this will be a healthy and properly developed child. The main thing to remember is that the amount of folic acid does not exceed 1 mg per day. Also, it is synthetic acid that is most quickly absorbed by the intestines, and not natural, which comes to us along with food.

Folic acid and its benefits

Folic acid should be used in the following cases:

Folic acid for women

The results of the study showed that almost every second woman out of the total has a lack of vitamin B9 in the body. Most of all, this applies to girls who take hormonal pills or drink a lot of alcoholic beverages.

The vitamin mainly affects the course of pregnancy and the development of a healthy fetus without complications and diseases. The lack of such an element in the body of a pregnant woman can cause the development of congenital diseases and pathologies. In this case, the risk of miscarriage or premature birth increases several times. There is also a risk of neural tube defects, cerebral herniation, spinal problems, and hydrocephalus. The risk of having a child with mental retardation or mental retardation increases.

With a lack of vitamin in women, it manifests itself:

1. Weakened state
2. Bad feeling
3. Dizziness
4. Gagging
5. Diarrhea and bowel problems
6. Development of anemia
7. Increased hair loss

That is why, even before a woman becomes pregnant, it is necessary to prepare as best as possible.

folic acid for men

Since vitamin B9 affects the synthesis of cells in the body in men, it affects the formation of spermatozoa. A low level of vitamin in a man's body leads to a decrease in the amount of sperm, and in special cases, to complete infertility.

Also, the low content of this substance in the male body can affect the genetic data of the child in the form of inheritance of any abnormalities - schizophrenia, Down syndrome, epilepsy. That is why, the male sex, like the female, must take a course of taking a vitamin before conceiving a child for 100 days.

The body of adolescents also needs this vitamin to create normal spermatogenesis. With a low content of the vitamin in the body, the following symptoms appear: memory impairment, growth retardation, absent-mindedness, lack of appetite.

To get the right amount of folic acid, you need to eat foods that contain this vitamin, such as fish, dairy products, organ meats, fresh vegetables and fruits. It is also possible to take drugs in the form of tablets - just one tablet per day for prevention, and in the treatment the doctor prescribes from two to five tablets per day.

Folic acid for children

When and in what doses to use folic acid for children is decided by the pediatrician. At the same time, the drug is quite cheap, and its benefits to the body are enormous. To use the drug, one vitamin tablet is diluted with acid, and the required amount is drawn with a syringe. Acid works:

1. For the full growth of the body.
2. Protection and support of the immune system.
3. Organ development.

Side effects in case of drug overdose

The negative effects of taking a vitamin can be:

1. Displacement of vitamin B12
2. Development of pernicious anemia.
3. Rash on the skin, the appearance of allergies.
4. Enlargement of the epithelium in the tubules of the kidneys.

Additional side effects also include: insomnia, convulsions, irritability, diarrhea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. In such cases, it is recommended to go to the doctor. The doctor himself will decide what to do, reduce the amount of vitamin intake or refuse it for the first time.

The use of a vitamin in various forms: natural - in food or as a vitamin complex, which perfectly increases the function of the synthesis of substances in the body, and also helps burn fat cells. When a vitamin enters the body, it actively affects the internal fat, and at this time it is broken down into alcohols and fatty acids, which are easily excreted from the body through the excretory system.

Together with a complex of healthy eating and physical activity, the use of the drug can be safely included in the list of things that help weight loss. At the same time, the vitamin can be consumed both in the form of pharmaceutical products and in the form of food products enriched with this substance.

Folic Acid for Hair Health

Also, the vitamin is used in cosmetology to solve hair problems. Since vitamins are widely available and inexpensive, they are used in the form of hair masks. Folic acid eliminates the following hair problems: hair loss, dryness, brittleness, split ends, gray hair, and also improves the structure, gives strength and shine, accelerates growth and improves hair density.

Folic acid can help fight anemia

When the level of this vitamin in the body decreases sharply, there is a violation of the regeneration of blood cells - red blood cells. They become smaller and larger, and anemia is formed. Symptoms of anemia: a violation of the supply of oxygen to the blood, a decrease in hemoglobin. Folic acid removes the feeling of weakness, headaches, and pallor of the skin.

What contains folic acid?

Most of this vitamin is found in spinach, liver and black beans, but other foods also have a large amount of this substance: