Vitamin B-9 is an essential B group vitamin known by several different names such as Folic Acid, Folate, Folacin and Pteroyiglutamic Acid. It’s considered to be one of the most essential B vitamins for overall health. Like other B vitamins, Folic Acid levels need to be replenished daily for optimum health.
The recommended daily allowance of Vitamin B-9 is 400 micrograms per day, but this number increases to 600 micrograms per day during pregnancy and 500 micrograms per day during breastfeeding. Anemia, headaches, a loss of energy, and irritability are symptoms of a Folate deficiency. There is very little danger associated with the intake of excessive Folic Acid.
Vitamin B-9 is considered to be essential partner with Vitamin C and Vitamin B-12 in breaking down and utilizing proteins in food. This aids in the production of red blood cells and helps the body produce DNA, the essential building blocks of life itself. Folic Acid is also instrumental in aiding the growth of cells and tissues. It’s important to consume proper amounts of Folic Acid in order to promote proper health. A proper diet rich in foods high in Vitamin B-9, including leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, liver, fish and poultry, usually provide all the Folic Acid the body needs.
Vitamin B-9 is an essential vitamin needed during pregnancy. Expectant mothers who do not take enough Folate during pregnancy invariably give birth to lower birth weight babies and their babies suffer from a higher incidence of birth defects like spina bifida. Folic Acid is also important in treating ailments such as leg ulcers, heart disease and even menstrual problems.
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