Question: What is the source, normal level in serum, treatment, requirement per day, function, and deficiency of vitamin b9?
Answer: Folic acid is also known as vitamin B9. The other name for folic acid is folate or folacin. The vitamin is synthesized in the body and stored in the liver.
Function of Folic Acid
Folic acid is required for the synthesis of DNA and for red blood production. It is a valuable content in forming heme which is the iron containing substance in hemoglobin.
Folic acid is essential for normal growth and reproduction and for prevention of blood disorders.
Folic acid deficiencies is associated with serious birth defects like failure of the brain development or failure of the spinal column to close, anemia and cancer
Sources of Folic Acid (Vitamin B9)
- The rich source of this vitamin is liver, brewer’s yeast, and dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach or kale.
- Good sources are: dried beans, asparagus, lettuce and broccoli, fresh oranges and whole wheat products.
Required Normal Dose
- Men – 200mcg
- Women – 180mcg
Signs of Vitamin B9 Deficiency
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Sore tongue
- Cracks in the corner of the mouth
- Gastrointestinal problem and diarrhea
- Anemia
Folic acid is more effective if it is taken together with vitamin B12 and vitamin C.
People requiring more folic acid:
- Pregnant women to reduce the chances of fetal anomaly
- Person suffering from psoriasis
- Person under stress
- Anyone consuming alcohol
- Women on birth control pills
- Women with hormone replacement therapy