Folic acid, which plays a role in the conversion of amino acids, which are the source of proteins, is of great importance in human health. Folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, plays a role in many different functions of the body. Vitamin B9 deficiency, which is involved in the growth of blood cells, can cause anemia and heart problems not only in adults but also in children. Therefore, we need to store the sufficient amount of folic acid in our body by consuming the foods containing the best folic acid on time.
What Are the Benefits of Folic Acid?
The benefits of vitamin B9, or folic acid, produced as the synthetic form of folate, are endless. It is good for not only physical but also psychological disorders such as depression. Great importance in the formation of healthy blood cells carries and in this way, it is also good for problems such as fatigue or weakness. In addition, folic acid, which is very important for heart health, also prevents the formation of different types of cancer. Although folate and folic acid are used interchangeably, the two are quite different. Folate is mostly found in spinach, broccoli, avocado, citrus fruits, eggs and beef liver. Folic acid is found in foods such as flour, breakfast cereals and bread. You can also find folic acid vitamin supplements in pharmacies when necessary and under the control of a doctor.
Folic Acid Deficiency Symptoms
The most common symptom of folic acid deficiency is anemia. However, complaints such as weakness, shortness of breath and fatigue are also prominent in these people. In addition, studies have proven that cracks on the rim of the mouth are also caused by a lack of folic acid. Redness of the tongue and dizziness are also among the symptoms of deficiency. When there is a lack of folic acid in the body, the following symptoms also manifest themselves:
- Weakness
- Depression
- Anemia
- tongue redness
- shortness of breath
- Dizziness
The Importance of Folic Acid in Pregnancy
Folate, also known as vitamin B9, is especially important for the first trimester of pregnancy. Although it is very important for the development of the fetus, it is also very important for the formation of the genetic structure of the cell. In the first three trimesters of pregnancy, it is necessary to consume enough folic acid to prevent anomalies in the development of the baby's brain and spinal cord. However, folic acid deficiency is the main cause of anemia during pregnancy. Therefore, it is of great importance for the health of their babies that expectant mothers receive the best foods containing folic acid before the pregnancy period. In addition, it is necessary to continue the use of folic acid in the first 12 weeks after pregnancy. For this, you should consume foods rich in folic acid and, if necessary, use folic acid pills under the control of your doctor.
Best Sources of Folic Acid
You can consume Folate naturally, which is found in many foods. Here are foods rich in folic acid!
- Vegetables: Spinach, kale, asparagus, lettuce, beets, red peppers, broccoli
- Fruits: Kiwi, grapefruit, lemon, orange, strawberry, banana, apricot
- Meat products / pulses: Eggs, red meat (liver), chickpeas, hazelnuts, walnuts
