FOLIC ACID

Folic Acid (Vitamin B9)

Folic acid is the synthetic form of Vitamin B9, a water-soluble vitamin essential for:

• 🧬 DNA synthesis

• 🩸 Red blood cell formation

• 🧠 Brain function

• 🤰 Healthy fetal development

The natural form found in foods is called folate.

🧪 Folic Acid (Folate) Test

The serum folate test measures the level of folate in your blood to detect deficiency.

Sometimes a RBC folate test is done, which reflects long-term folate status.

📊 Normal Range (Serum Folate)

(Ranges may vary slightly by laboratory.)

🔻 Folic Acid Deficiency

Causes:

• Poor diet

• Alcohol use

• Malabsorption (intestinal disorders)

• Pregnancy (increased requirement)

• Certain medications (e.g., anti-seizure drugs)

Symptoms:

• Fatigue

• Weakness

• Pale skin

• Shortness of breath

• Mouth ulcers

• Irritability

Severe deficiency can cause megaloblastic anemia.

🤰 Importance in Pregnancy

Adequate folic acid before and during early pregnancy helps prevent neural tube defects such as:

• Spina bifida

Recommended dose for most women:

• 400–800 mcg daily (before conception and during early pregnancy)

🥬 Food Sources of Folate

• Green leafy vegetables (spinach, broccoli)

• Lentils and beans

• Citrus fruits

• Peanuts

• Fortified cereals and grains

⚠️ High Folic Acid

Usually due to supplements.
Excess folic acid can sometimes mask Vitamin B12 deficiency.