FOLIC ACID
Vitamin B9 (or folic acid) is essential for certain bodily functions, particularly the production of genetic material. Learn about its functions and the risks associated with too little or too much intake.
Description
Description
FOLIC ACID
Vitamin B9 (or folic acid) is essential for certain bodily functions, particularly the production of genetic material. Learn about its functions and the risks associated with too little or too much intake.
What is vitamin B9?
Vitamin B9 is not a single molecule but a family of molecules with the same function. This general term includes:
folates, which occur naturally in food,
folic acid, which is the synthetic form added to certain foods (fortified foods and dietary supplements).
Why is it important to consume vitamin B9?
Vitamin B9 is involved in cell growth and renewal. It is particularly important to have sufficient levels of this vitamin during the first few weeks of pregnancy. It helps prevent malformations of the embryo's nervous system (called the neural tube), which can have very serious consequences for the development of the brain (anencephaly) and spinal cord (spina bifida).
What are the health risks associated with deficiency?
Beyond the risk of embryonic malformation, vitamin B9 deficiency manifests itself in a form of anemia known as “megaloblastic anemia,” characterized by abnormally large red blood cells with poorly differentiated nuclei. It is accompanied by symptoms such as:
fatigue
headaches
dizziness
shortness of breath
paleness
Which populations are most susceptible to vitamin B9 deficiency?
Due to the risk of serious malformations in the unborn child, it is essential to ensure sufficient vitamin B9 intake for all women who may become pregnant. It is important that vitamin B9 is present in sufficient quantities from the first day of pregnancy (whether planned or unplanned).
For your information, here are the health claims that can be used:
·Folate contributes to maternal tissue growth during pregnancy
·Folate contributes to normal amino acid synthesis
·Folate contributes to normal blood formation
· Folate contributes to normal homocysteine metabolism
·Folate contributes to normal psychological function
·Folate contributes to the normal function of the immune system
·Folate contributes to the reduction of fatigue
·Folate plays a role in the process of cell division
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