All creatures on the planet need vitamins. The body receives these trace elements from the food that enters it. In addition to being obtained from food, vitamins can be synthesized and ingested by the human body by taking capsules, tablets or powders. Regardless of the type, their beneficial effects have been proven by all doctors and scientists in the world.
Folic acid is one of the most important vitamins for humans. It affects not only the functioning of internal organs, but also ensures the full development of a new life in the mother's womb. However, there is a lot of controversy about the norm per day. Therefore, before you start taking it, you need to make sure what daily norm of this substance is needed for women and men.
Determination of folic acid
Folacin is a water-soluble vitamin. Folic acid is not synthesized in the human body. It can only get into it from food, as well as from specially designed drugs. A huge amount of folic acid is found in vegetables, herbs, fruits, baked goods, seeds and nuts. Some countries even specially import grains enriched with this useful element to bakeries.
In 1931, one of the most famous doctors of the time, Lucy Wills, was conducting research on the fight against anemia in young pregnant girls. Through research, she found that yeast and animal liver extracts have a beneficial effect in the treatment of this disease. By the end of the 30s, a new vitamin called folacin was introduced to the world. A few years later, folic acid began to be extracted from spinach leaves and soon they learned how to synthesize it by a chemical method.
What is folacin for?
Folic acid, which is often referred to as vitamin B9, is involved in the renewal of the circulatory system, and also affects the synthesis of protein found in the gland. Folacin promotes the production of nucleic acid, which contains hereditary information. It also plays an important role in the development, renewal and growth of cells. The use of the required norm of folic acid per day forms an appetite, normalizes the digestion process.
Regular and daily intake of this vitamin helps the body to cope with various diseases faster. Especially with those that appear due to reduced acidity of the stomach.
Folic acid for women
Every girl should consume a sufficient amount of healthy foods containing vitamin B9. If it is not possible to include a lot of greens, fruits and vegetables in the diet, you should buy folic acid tablets at the pharmacy. This vitamin is very important at the stage of planning a child, as well as in the first months of fetal formation.
In the female body, it can lead to serious pathologies in the unborn baby. Folacin acts on the embryo from the first days of development. At the same time, the expectant mother may not even know that she is pregnant. That is why it is so important to saturate the body with folic acid already at the stage of planning a child.
The benefits of vitamin B9 for pregnant women
The following benefits in the use of vitamin B9 by women can be distinguished:
- Metabolism is restored, the work of the heart and blood vessels is improving.
- Regular use helps to normalize the maturation of eggs.
- Improves mood and overall well-being.
- The possibility of conceiving a healthy child increases.
- Folic acid has a beneficial effect on the formation of the placenta, which then becomes a source of oxygen for the fetus.
- The risk of developing pathologies in the embryo is significantly reduced.
- Folacin affects the DNA and RNA of the unborn child, as well as the development of all tissues of his body.
The rate of folic acid per day in the first trimester of pregnancy and in the last is very different. The most important processes that shape the future health of the child occur in the first trimester. Therefore, during this period, doctors always prescribe folacin to women in an increased dosage.
The norm of vitamin B9 for women
Since folacin does not accumulate in the human body, it should be constantly saturated with it through food and synthesized vitamins. Vitamin B9 tablets should be taken in the morning after breakfast with a sufficient amount of clean water. Thinking about replenishment in the family, you must immediately start using folic acid. The norm per day during planning ranges from 400 to 800 mcg. The required dosage can be prescribed by a gynecologist.
Before using any vitamins, you should always seek help from specialists. Especially when it comes to planning a child. Most doctors agree that the daily folic acid requirement for women is 400-500 micrograms. This dose must be taken daily until pregnancy. After confirming the situation, the doctor can increase the daily rate to 1000 mcg.
Taking folacin in the trimesters of pregnancy
You can take vitamin B9 both separately and as part of a multivitamin complex. After the onset of pregnancy, many women are prescribed a whole list of essential vitamins, which are often part of a single drug intended for women in position. The most popular prenatal vitamins will always contain the required daily dose of folacin.
The norm of folic acid per day in the first trimester of pregnancy is 800 mcg. In the first weeks of the situation, this vitamin should not be forgotten in any case. It is during this period that the process of formation of the neural tube of the fetus occurs. Folacin plays a very important role in this.
In any case, the rate of folic acid per day for a pregnant woman should always be agreed with the doctor.
Why do men need vitamin B9
The male body, like the female body, needs vitamins. Folic acid is no exception. Vitamin B9 helps the body break down beneficial substances, which further provide the human body with energy. Folacin is involved in the creation of new DNA molecules, improves the blood circulation process.
The special effect of folic acid on the male body is that the required daily dose of this vitamin ensures the proper functioning of brain activity. The state of the nervous system is also completely dependent on the competent use of the norm of folic acid. It is enough to take about 400 mcg per day so that the body fully feels its benefits. If folacin is supplied in insufficient doses, this can provoke a number of pathological changes.
The norm of vitamin B9 for men
Every boy aged 9-13 should be given at least 300 micrograms of vitamin B9. It can be found in food or be part of a multivitamin complex. The norm of folic acid per day for men who are over 14 years old should be within 400 micrograms.
Since this folacin is a water-soluble substance, it is completely eliminated from the body naturally through urine and sweat. Therefore, there is no need to worry about an overdose of folic acid.
Foods containing folacin
Due to the fact that the human body cannot produce folic acid on its own, it must be obtained from the following foods:
- Vegetables and greens. Most vitamin B9 is found in green lettuce, spinach leaves, parsley, white cabbage, and broccoli. It is also worth leaning on cucumbers, pumpkin, carrots, legumes and beets.
- Herbs. You can make healthy herbal teas from dried nettles, mint, and dandelions. A lot of folic acid is found in the leaves of currants and raspberries.
- Fruits. Vitamin B9 is present in bananas, apricots, oranges. If you make freshly squeezed juice from these fruits every morning, you can only saturate the body with a daily dose of folacin.
- Cereals, nuts, seeds. Particular attention should be paid to peanuts and walnuts. From bakery products, it is better to choose products made from wholemeal flour.
- Protein. To get enough folic acid, you need to eat a small portion of foods rich in animal protein per day. It can be chicken meat, cottage cheese, chicken eggs, fish, liver or cheese.
Replenishing the diet with foods that include folic acid should not go to extremes. Healthy food contains a huge amount of vitamins and minerals. If, in addition to it, you saturate the body with large doses of synthesized drugs, you can earn hypervitaminosis. That is why before taking any vitamins, you should seek the advice of a doctor. He will conduct certain tests and prescribe the required dose of folacin.
Folic acid for children
All pediatricians in the world claim that vitamin B9 is necessary not only for adults, but also for children. It improves the functioning of the digestive tract, relieving many problems with the intestines. Folic acid is involved in the creation of new DNA cells, prevents most of the dangerous and harmful changes in the body.
The amount of folic acid per day for children depends on the age and development of the child. Most often, doctors prescribe a dosage in the range of 100-400 mcg. It is extremely important to take into account the fact that a contraindication in taking folacin is an individual intolerance to this vitamin by the body. Therefore, it is so important not to engage in independent selection of its daily norm, but instead seek the advice of a doctor.
Every day the human body should receive about 30 vitamins and minerals. The lack of these substances leads to general weakness, malfunctions of organs and their systems, and other health problems. This is especially true for women and men who are planning to conceive a child. Folic acid when planning pregnancy is one of the most important substances. How and in what dosage you need to drink it, the doctor will tell you.
Vitamin Benefits
If a woman's body lacks folic acid, or vitamin B9, conception may not occur. Its normal amount, on the contrary, contributes to the onset of pregnancy and easy bearing of the fetus. Thanks to this substance, the neural tube is formed - the rudiment of the central nervous system of the unborn child. A sufficient amount of vitamin B9 prevents malformations.
And what happens if a woman's body is deficient in vitamin B9?
There is a risk of such difficulties:
- Placental abruption. May be partial or complete.
- Unexpected termination of pregnancy in the early stages.
- Stopping the development of the embryo.
- The so-called developmental errors. This is a cleft lip, complications in the formation of viable brain cells, neural tube defects. These include severe lesions of the spinal cord associated with the fact that the channel is not completely closed; anencephaly (the brain is not fully developed).
- Intrauterine death of a child.
- Anemia, joint pain in a pregnant woman.
Each of these defects can occur in the first 20-30 days of pregnancy. Why so early? Because at this time the formation of organs and their systems takes place. That is why it is important even before conception to normalize the level of folic acid in the body.
Vitamin B9 is responsible for the formation of DNA in the fetus. And that, in turn, is the basis for the formation of tissues and organs. Also, folic acid when planning pregnancy contributes to the proper development of the placenta.
Not always folic acid deficiency is accompanied by some special signs. Take, for example, anemia. It occurs when the number of red blood cells produced by the bone marrow decreases. At first, a woman's mood often changes, irritability appears, she quickly gets tired. The following symptoms are indigestion, vomiting, and even hair loss. Ulcers may appear on the oral mucosa. And if a woman suffers from hypertension, the risk of childbirth with complications will increase.
Pharmacy preparations
The daily intake of folic acid, according to the instructions for use, is 400 mcg. In the period before conception, a woman needs to double the dose (800 mcg).
It is also necessary to increase the dosage in cases where there are visible signs of a lack of a vitamin, and also when there are factors that contribute to its rapid removal, for example, the use of oral contraceptives and anti-seizure drugs. More folic acid should also be drunk for those women who, before pregnancy, were on protein diets or suffer from toxicosis of pregnant women.
Particular attention should be paid to those suffering from diabetes or epilepsy. With such diseases, B9 will help prevent disorders in the development of the central nervous system of the child.
In all of the above cases, the daily intake is 3 tablets. A large dosage of folic acid during pregnancy is indicated for those who drink alcohol, smoke, do not add vegetables and herbs to the diet, or often suffer from constipation / diarrhea. It will be better if the dosage is determined by the doctor.
Is there a risk of overdose?
Hardly ever. This condition can occur if several times the daily intake of the vitamin is exceeded.
Excess has no effect on the body. The only thing that can happen is an allergic reaction.
Vitamin B9 does not accumulate in our body "in reserve". Its excess is immediately removed. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure that daily consumption covers the needs of a person.
How to use?
In most cases, doctors advise drinking one tablet 1-4 times a day. According to the instructions, its use can last up to three months.
Folic acid should be taken immediately after meals with a small amount of water.
Sometimes doctors prescribe vitamin E for complex therapy. Together with B9, it protects body cells from adverse external influences, improves sexual functions for both women and men, restores balance in the hormonal system, promotes the formation of female and male hormones progesterone and testosterone, accelerates conception.
Contraindications
There are diseases when the use of vitamin B9 is strictly contraindicated:
- bronchial asthma,
- kidney failure,
- pyelonephritis,
- allergic reactions.
Sometimes the body reacts to a substance in unpredictable ways. Vomiting, indigestion, sleep disturbances, cramps, and abdominal pain may occur. How to be in that case? Urgently consult a doctor. He will reconsider the advisability of using the drug and its dosage.
Do future dads need folic acid?
Experts answer in the affirmative. If there is little folic acid in a man’s body, he develops atherosclerosis of the vessels or anemia:
- Atherosclerosis is a consequence of metabolic disorders, in particular, amino acids containing sulfur. A substance called homocysteine appears in the body of a man. It provokes the weakening and destruction of blood vessels.
- Anemia, or anemia, occurs when the bone marrow produces large but immature red blood cells. "Thanks" to them the disease progresses.
Scientists have proven that a lack of folic acid in a man's body provokes the formation of incompetent spermatozoa, that is, those that cannot fertilize an egg. That is why the use of B9 by a man before conceiving a child is considered the norm.
For men, it is better to compensate for the lack of folic acid with foods containing it, for example, green vegetables.
"Male" dosage
The optimal level of B9 is 3-17 ng per 1 ml of blood. The norm is 400 mcg. According to the instructions, you need to drink 1 tablet (1 mg) 1 time per day.
As with women, men need to see a doctor to determine the optimal dose.
Folic acid is available in pharmacies in the form of medicines. Their use without a doctor's prescription is strictly prohibited. Such amateur activity can harm both the expectant mother and the baby.
- Vitamin B9 tablets. The amount of the main substance is 1 mg. This dosage is considered ideal for both men and women during the planning of a child.
- Folacin. According to the instructions, each tablet contains 5 mg of the substance. This is much more than the body requires per day.
- Folio. This formulation contains 400 micrograms of B9 and 200 micrograms of iodine. It satisfies the body's need for these substances both during the planning period and during the onset of pregnancy.
Among other things, B9 can be found in vitamin complexes designed for pregnant women. They usually contain a prophylactic dose.
Where to look for a vitamin?
Proper, balanced nutrition will provide the future baby with a sufficient amount of essential vitamins. Folic acid is found in both plant and animal foods.
Most of all it contains:
- greens and lettuce,
- legumes,
- horseradish leaves,
- pumpkin,
- carrot,
- beet,
- cucumbers,
- bananas,
- melons,
- mushrooms (especially porcini and champignons).
Nuts are rightfully considered record holders for the amount of vitamin B9 in the composition.
Folic acid levels can be normalized by drinking orange and apricot juice, eating barley groats and wholemeal baked goods.
From products of animal origin, it is worth giving preference to fish (especially tuna and salmon), liver, meat, chicken, eggs, dairy products.
Like all other vitamins, B9 is destroyed when exposed to high temperatures. During cooking, about 90% of folic acid breaks down. Therefore, sometimes doctors advise taking special vitamin complexes.
It is worth taking folic acid in the period before conception for both men and women.
The lack of a vitamin in a woman's body leads to disastrous consequences - this is a lag in the growth of the fetus, and placental abruption, and even stillbirth. Poor health also threatens the expectant mother - she develops anemia, as a result of weakness and fatigue.
For the future father, the lack of B9 is fraught with the appearance of low-quality spermatozoa that will not be able to participate in fertilization. A sufficient amount of this substance in the body of both parents will speed up conception and significantly increase the chance of having a completely healthy baby.
This acid itself is biologically inactive and for medical purposes it obtained artificially in the form of tablets or vitamin in ampoules. It is found in sufficient quantities in fresh vegetables (spinach, beans, beets, tomatoes), meat, liver, eggs, etc.
The acid is converted by the cells of the body into a biologically active form called tetrahydrofolate, which is contained in enzymes and thanks to it the human body produces amino acids.
You can learn more about folic acid and foods with which the body receives part of the daily intake of this vitamin.
Administration of folic acid
Folic acid is essential for:
- normal functioning of blood cells;
- DNA synthesis;
- the process of formation of erythrocytes and normoblasts;
- treatment of macrocytic, megaloblastic, hyperchromic anemias;
- effective antimicrobial therapy;
- preventive treatment during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Also, this acid promotes the formation of enzymes that have a preventive effect on the formation of tumors.
Instructions for use of folic acid
How and how much to take folic acid? On average, vitamin B9 must be taken in a course of 30 days orally at 0.5 - 1 mg from 1 to 3 times a day for adults, and for children from 25 - 200 mcg 1 time.
Form of release of folic acid
As a rule, this drug is produced in tablets or powder and is sold dosage of 1 mg, 25 or 50 pieces in one package. 
Regular packaging is a polymer container or a blisters. Also, this drug is produced under the name "Folic acid 9 months" for pregnant women. One tablet includes 0.4 mg and is available in 30, 60 and 90 pcs.
Vitamin B9 is also available in ampoules, good for injections and hair masks..
Production is carried out by pharmaceutical factories in different countries, both in pure form and in combination with other drugs. Depending on this, it fluctuates the price of this vitamin is from 15-20 rubles to 200 and more. So every consumer can find a worthy alternative for a reasonable price.
Indications and contraindications for the use of folic acid
Why is folic acid prescribed? 
For the treatment of anemia caused by a lack of vitamin B9, as well as as part of complex therapy in the presence of leukopenia or anemia that has developed against the background of taking medications and ionizing radiation.
Folic acid is no less effective in the treatment of tropical sprue diarrhea, intestinal tuberculosis and chronic gastroenteritis.
Almost always, vitamin tablets or injections are prescribed for pregnant and lactating women in order to avoid the development of hypovitaminosis, which is extremely dangerous for a growing baby.
Folic acid is a fairly safe drug, but its long-term use is still not recommended - it reduces the concentration of cyanocobalamin (vitamin B12) in the body. Contraindications for use are kidney disease, individual intolerance and bronchial asthma.
Folic acid dosage: how to take it correctly?
In different populations, the dosage of the drug varies. Thus, the daily doses of folic acid in women, men and children vary depending on the needs of their organisms.
Folic acid for women
Worldwide medical research has shown that practically every 2nd woman has a lack of vitamin B9. 
This is especially pronounced in those who take hormonal contraceptives or abuse alcohol.
Folic acid is especially important for women when planning pregnancy, because its insufficient amount in the mother's body can provoke a variety of congenital malformations and pathologies in the fetus. The risk of miscarriage, premature birth and placental abruption is greatly increased.
There is also a very high probability of a neural tube defect, the development of cerebral hernias, hydrocephalus, anencephaly and various spinal defects. The risk of having a child with a diagnosis of mental retardation or mental retardation is greatly increased. Pregnant women with vitamin B9 deficiency develop:
- feeling unwell;
- weakness;
- dizziness;
- vomit;
- diarrhea;
- hair loss;
- anemia may develop.
That is why, long before the perfect moment when a woman finds two long-awaited strips on the test, she needs to prepare to the maximum.
Already 100 days before the start of planning a long-awaited pregnancy and during the entire period of bearing a baby, doctors recommend consuming from 0.4 to 0.8 mg of this acid every day. In the event that this is not the 1st pregnancy and pathologies are found in the development of the previous baby, the dosage of folic acid should be increased to 4 mg.
Read about the rules for taking folic acid during pregnancy.
Folic acid for men
Vitamin B9, which is responsible for the formation of new cells in the body of men affects sperm count. 
Vitamin deficiency leads to a decrease in the quality and quantity of sperm, and sometimes even infertility.
Also, a limited amount of vitamin B9 in the body can negatively affect the unborn child in the form of hereditary abnormalities - schizophrenia, epilepsy, Down syndrome. So, men, as well as women, need to take folic acid before conception within 100 days.
For adolescent boys, folic acid is also necessary for the normal regulation of spermogenesis, as it is for adult men. With a lack of vitamin boys grow much more slowly than their peers, their memory deteriorates, they become distracted, their appetite disappears.
To obtain the required amount of vitamin, you need to eat foods rich in its content, namely fresh vegetables, offal, fish, cottage cheese, cheese. Also, additional use will not be superfluous: for the prevention of deficiency, the dosage for men is only one tablet of folic acid per day (1 mg), and from 2 to 5 tablets are prescribed for treatment.
Folic acid for children
For the body of children vitamin B9 is especially needed during active growth from development in the womb to 3 years. In the first months from the birth of a child, folic acid is necessary for the growth of all organs and systems.
Children up to a year who are breastfed, no additional folic acid is required, provided that the mother is balanced and well fed.
Depending on the age of the child, vitamin B9 is prescribed in the following amount per day:
- from 0 to 6 months - 25 mcg
- from 6 to 12 months - 35 mcg
- from 1 to 3 years - 50 mcg
- from 3 to 6 years - 75 mcg
- from 6 to 10 - 100 mcg
- from 10 to 14 - 150 mcg
- from fourteen - 200 mcg.
One tablet contains 1 mg (1000 mcg) of the vitamin, therefore, for ease of use, it is recommended that parents dilute the tablet in water and measure the required amount using a measuring syringe.
Side effects and overdose of folic acid
Side effects from long-term use of this vitamin include:
- displacement of vitamin B12;
- development of pernicious anemia;
- rash, itchy skin, asthma attack (allergic reaction);
- an increase in the epithelium in the tubules of the kidneys.
An overdose of folic acid contributes to insomnia, convulsions, excessive excitability, and can also cause diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, and abdominal pain. In such a situation, you should contact your doctor. In the future, it may be necessary to reduce the dose of folic acid or temporarily completely abandon it.
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Alternate name: Vitamin B9
Folic acid (or vitamin B9 is a water-soluble vitamin that is necessary for the growth and development of the immune and circulatory systems of the body. Along with folic acid, vitamins also include its derivatives, including di-, tri-, polyglutamates and others. All of them, together with folic acid, they combine to form “folacin.” A lack of folic acid can cause megaloblastic anemia in adults, and increases the risk of neural tube defects in pregnant women) is a synthetic form that is added to food.
Like all water-soluble vitamins, folic acid dissolves in water and the rest leaves the body through urine. This means that the body does not store folic acid for a long time, and the patient needs a constant supply of vitamin B9 through the foods we eat.
Folic acid helps tissues grow and cells work. Taking the right amount of folic acid before and during pregnancy helps prevent some birth defects, including fracture or dislocation of the spinal discs. Folic acid also helps prevent certain types of anemia.
Folic acid works with vitamins B12 and C to help the body break down old proteins and synthesize new ones. Vitamins help form red blood cells and produce DNA, the building block of the human body that carries genetic information.
Folic acid can also be used to treat certain menstrual problems and leg ulcers.
Food sources of folic acid
Folic acid occurs naturally in the following foods:
Dark green leafy vegetables;
- dried beans and peas (legumes);
- citrus fruits and juices.
Many foods are now fortified with folic acid, including: breads, cereals, flours, pastas, rice and other grain products.
Daily requirement for folic acid
The best way to get your daily requirement of essential vitamins is to eat a wide variety of foods. Most people get enough folic acid in their diet because it is found in abundance in foods.
How much of each vitamin a patient needs depends on their age and gender. Other factors are also important, such as pregnancy and illness.
Daily intake of folic acid for newborns
0-6 months: 65 mcg/day
- 7-12 months: 80mcg/day
The daily norm of folic acid for children and schoolchildren
1-3 years: 150 mcg/day
- 4-8 years old: 200mcg/day
- 9-13 years: 300 mcg / day
Daily Value of Folic Acid for Teens and Adults
Men aged 14 and over: 400 mcg/day
- Women aged 14 and over: 400 mcg/day
- Pregnant girls 14-18 years old: 600 mcg / day
- Pregnant girls 19 years and older: 500 mcg/day
- Lactating women 19 years and older: 500 mcg/day
Excess and deficiency of folic acid in the body
Folic acid deficiency can lead to:
diarrhea;
- gray hair;
- ulcers in the mouth;
- peptic ulcer (or stomach ulcer);
- slow growth;
- swollen tongue (or glossitis).
Excess folic acid usually does not cause harm, as vitamins are regularly excreted from the body in the urine.
There is strong evidence that folic acid may help reduce the risk of certain birth defects (spinal injury and anencephaly are intrauterine fetal malformations that occur early in pregnancy and are usually associated with exposure to various environmental hazards, toxic substances, or infection; a serious malformation of the brain, consisting in the complete or partial absence of the cerebral hemispheres, bones of the cranial vault and soft tissues; a multifactorial congenital malformation arising from a violation of the mechanisms of prenatal development of the fetus during the period of 21-28 days of pregnancy).
Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should consume at least 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid each day in addition to their meals, especially for pregnant women. We recommend that such people ask their doctor to create the best diet for them.
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The site provides reference information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases should be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. Expert advice is required!
general information
About the benefits folic acid(vitamin B 9) people have known for a long time, but only in the last 10 years, doctors have begun to actively promote preventive courses of folic acid intake for pregnant women and those suffering from iron deficiency anemia.Folic acid is involved in metabolism, in the production of DNA, plays an important role in the synthesis of immune blood cells, and normalizes the function of the digestive tract. For pregnant women, folic acid is essential because it plays an important role in the development of the neural tube of the fetus. With a normal level of vitamin B 9, the likelihood of malformations in the fetus is significantly reduced. In addition, it is necessary for the normal growth and development of the placenta.
Discovery history
In 1926, microbiologist V. Efremov discovered a specific form of anemia in pregnant women - megaloblastic anemia. Then vitaminology developed rapidly, many scientists conducted research in this area of knowledge. Most attention was paid to the nutritional factor. Efremov accurately determined the presence of a certain anti-anemic factor in the liver tissue - significant improvements were observed in patients who received food from the liver.In 1932, the British physician Wils, who worked for many years in India, found that some pregnant women suffering from megaloblastic anemia did not improve when using a purified extract of liver cells. However, these women recovered completely after consuming the crude extract. From this, Wills deduced that some important factor causing recovery was destroyed during the cleansing. This substance was soon isolated and named the Wills factor. Later it was called vitamin M. In 1941, it was found that spinach and parsley leaves are rich in this substance - therefore it was renamed folic acid (translated from Latin folium - leaf).
Mechanism of action
Once in the body, vitamin B 9 is converted into tetrahydrofolate, which serves as a component of many enzymes, and also participates in a number of biochemical reactions, such as protein metabolism. As a result, the body synthesizes amino acids necessary for the formation of proteins, epinephrine and some other factors. Also, vitamin B 9 has an effect similar to estrogens - it determines the correct development of the woman's reproductive system.It is well known that the first and most important step in the division of any cell is the division of the DNA molecule. It is in the process of DNA replication that vitamin B 9 takes an active part. In addition, it plays an important role in the synthesis of RNA, amino acids, and improves the absorption of iron. Therefore, the lack of folic acid is primarily dangerous for rapidly dividing cells.
Mood also depends on the level of folic acid. It is involved in the metabolism of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and adrenaline, which have a significant impact on the functioning of the nervous system.
Folic acid stimulates appetite and is involved in the release of hydrochloric acid in the stomach.
Need for folic acid
The human liver usually contains some folacin, which can prevent hypovitaminosis for 3-6 months. The body of an adult needs 0.4 mg of folic acid per day, during pregnancy and lactation - 0.4-0.6 mg, a child of the 1st year of life - 0.04-0.06 mg. In the normal state of the intestinal flora, vitamin B 9 can be produced endogenously.Folic acid and pregnancy
Daily maintenance of normal folic acid levels in the months before pregnancy helps to reduce the risk of congenital malformations of the fetus. Clinical studies have shown that 80% of cases of malformation can be prevented if a woman begins to compensate for the lack of vitamin B 9 before pregnancy.In the Russian Federation, it is generally accepted that the need for pregnant women without symptoms of deficiency of this micronutrient is 0.4 mg per day. During breastfeeding, the need is 0.6 mg per day.
During pregnancy, a woman's body consumes much more folic acid than before pregnancy. Vitamin B 9 is not stored in reserve, so it is important to get it daily from external sources. It is very important to maintain the required level of folic acid in the first trimester, when the fetal nervous system develops.
The most important role of vitamin B 9 for the fetus is the development of the neural tube. She also takes part in the renewal and mitosis of the cells of the mother's body, in particular the cells of the internal organs, which must be constantly updated.
Already in the second week of pregnancy, the brain begins to actively develop in the embryo. It was at this time that even a short deficiency of vitamin B 9 threatens with serious, often irreparable consequences. Since this micronutrient is necessary in the process of mitosis, which is extremely important for rapidly dividing and developing cells (these primarily include neurons and other cells of the nervous tissue), its deficiency primarily affects the developing nervous system.
Folic acid is involved in the production of the main blood cells (erythrocytes, leukocytes and platelets), which is important for both the mother and the fetus.
For the normal course of pregnancy, maintaining the health of the woman and the fetus, doctors recommend starting taking folic acid in the form of tablets 2-3 months before the planned pregnancy, and continuing until childbirth. When using vitamin B 9, you must adhere to the doses recommended by your doctor, since an excess of this micronutrient is just as dangerous as its deficiency.
Vitamin B 9 is the only micronutrient whose role during pregnancy is not underestimated even by opponents of synthetic vitamin preparations and medicines in general. Therefore, even if you avoid any medications during pregnancy, do not refuse a course of vitamin B 9, at least for prevention purposes - this will save you and your child from a number of unjustified risks. Although sometimes it is necessary to compare the dosage prescribed by the doctor with the body's needs for folic acid.
Folic acid deficiency and its consequences
During heat treatment of food, up to 90% of vitamin B 9, which is part of raw foods, can be lost. For example, when frying meat, up to 95% of vitamin B 9 is destroyed, when cooking meat and vegetable products - from 70 to 90%, when boiling eggs - about half.Vitamin B 9 deficiency can develop due to its low content in the diet, impaired absorption of micronutrients in the intestine, or with an increase in the need for this substance (pregnancy, lactation).
A common cause of this hypovitaminosis is the regular use of alcoholic beverages.
Folic acid deficiency is the most common symptom in pregnant women and infants. Vitamin B 9 deficiency in the fetus develops as a result of its lack in the mother's body, and in infants - due to its insufficient content in breast milk.
Folic acid deficiency in the body of a pregnant woman can serve as a factor in the whole a number of serious violations:
- miscarriage;
- congenital malformations;
- mental retardation;
- malformation of the neural tube;
- spina bifida (in the fetus);
- malformations of the circulatory system;
- cleft lip or cleft palate;
- anemia.
Lack of vitamin B 9 is not always accompanied by obvious symptoms. At the same time, according to research results, a lack of folic acid is present in 20-100% of people, depending on where they live. This is one of the most common hypovitaminosis. However, even in the absence of certain clinical symptoms, the likelihood of heart attack and stroke increases significantly, immunity decreases.
Folic acid deficiency often leads to the development of pernicious anemia in premature babies. An increase in the need for vitamin B 9 occurs in a number of pathologies: leukemia, hemolytic anemia, chronic infectious diseases, carcinomatosis.
First of all, with a lack of vitamin B 9, megaloblastic anemia develops. With this type of anemia, not only does the content of erythrocytes in the blood fall, but their activity is also disrupted, since most of them do not mature in the bone marrow. If at the same time you do not make up for the lack of folic acid, symptoms such as loss of appetite, nervousness, loss of strength develop. Later, vomiting, diarrhea, alopecia join. Possible morphological disorders of the skin, the appearance of ulcers in the oral cavity and pharynx. If not treated promptly, megaloblastic anemia can lead to death.
In recent years, a number of clinical trials have been carried out, as a result of which it was found that vitamin B 9 deficiency, disrupting the metabolism of sulfur amino acids, leads to retention of the amino acid homocysteine in the blood. Homocysteine has a negative effect on the intima of blood vessels, which leads to the appearance of atherosclerotic plaques and increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Violation of the absorption of vitamin B 9 can occur with diseases of the stomach, gastrectomy, when the body is deficient in anti-anemic factors (Castle factors) synthesized in the stomach. Folic acid can enter the bloodstream only by combining with antianemic factors, respectively, when they are deficient, the level of folic acid in the blood drops.
In addition to folic acid, the Castle factor carries cyanocobalamin into the blood. Therefore, prolonged use of vitamin B 9 preparations in an increased dosage can lead to a lack of cyanocobalamin.
Also, a lack of vitamin B 9 is observed in severe liver pathologies. It is in the liver that the vitamin is transformed into tetrahydrofolate, which takes part in biochemical reactions. Folic acid in its primary form is useless for the body.
If the body is deficient in vitamin B 9, the hematopoiesis system may be disrupted: red blood cells do not mature, and defective cells that are not able to transport oxygen are released into the blood. This is one of the reasons for the malformation of the nervous system in the fetus, since neurons cannot fully grow and develop under conditions of hypoxia.
Together with erythrocytes, the synthesis of leukocytes and platelets is disrupted, which can provoke a decrease in immunity and disrupt blood clotting. In pregnant women, vitamin B 9 deficiency may be accompanied by an iron deficiency. This increases the risk for both mother and baby.
Vitamin B 9 deficiency can develop with a lack of vitamins in the diet, fasting, following unbalanced diets for weight loss. However, the most common vitamin B 9 deficiency factor is dysbacteriosis. Dysbacteriosis develops as a result of prolonged, often uncontrolled intake of antibiotic drugs, incl. without a prescription from a doctor.
In the United States, there is a law requiring manufacturers to add a certain amount of vitamin B 9 to flour in order to prevent consumers from becoming deficient in this substance. In the USA, the prophylactic dose of vitamin B 9 is twice as high as in the Russian Federation.
Foods containing folic acid
Vitamin B 9 is part of all tissues of humans, animals, plants and microorganisms. The human body is unable to produce folic acid. Therefore, it is obtained from food, or is produced by the microflora of the colon. Therefore, in violation of the functions of the intestine or dysbacteriosis, the production of vitamin B 9 may be insufficient. In such situations, an additional source of this micronutrient is needed.Vitamin B 9 is found in large quantities in plant foods: spinach, onions, dill, parsley, beans, peas, buckwheat, oats, bran, bananas, walnuts, grapefruit, dried apricots, melons, yeast, pumpkin, mushrooms, beets, turnips and others
Also, a source of folic acid is meat and animal products: beef, lamb, pork, liver, kidneys, poultry meat, milk, eggs, trout, perch, cheese, etc.
A plate of cereal porridge with milk and a glass of orange juice fill 50% of the body's daily requirement for vitamin B 9 .
The use of bifidobacteria stimulates the endogenous formation of folic acid in the intestine.
Vitamin B 9 decomposes quite quickly under the influence of sunlight and simply during prolonged storage of food, as well as during thermal processing of products. The most rapidly destroyed folic acid contained in plant foods. Folic acid in meat is more stable.
Therefore, in order to preserve the vitamin in foods, it is recommended to consume raw foods. Vegetables are best consumed in the form of raw salads. In such a salad, it is best to add garden cabbage, parsley, dill, beet, mint or dandelion leaves. It is also useful to add young nettles to the salad. Of the juices, it is better to drink orange and tomato - they contain the most folic acid.
Among meat products, the most folic acid is found in the liver. The liver can be lightly fried and boiled for a short time - while vitamin B 9, which is part of it, is not destroyed.
Medicines containing folic acid
folic acid tablets- the most convenient dosage form for dosing (one tablet contains 1 mg of the substance). In addition, today it is the most economical option. To fully compensate for the deficiency of a pregnant woman in vitamin B 9, it is enough to take 1 tablet per day. However, given the prevalence of folic acid deficiency, which may not manifest itself externally, 2-3 tablets per day can be taken 2-3 months before pregnancy and in the first trimester. This dosage is recommended by doctors, since an overdose from such an amount of the drug is impossible, and the consequences of a lack of folic acid are extremely dangerous. In this situation, doctors resort to justified reinsurance.Folic acid is available as a drug Folacin. One tablet of the drug contains 5 mg of vitamin B 9. This is much more than the daily allowance, even for a pregnant woman. Excess folic acid has neither positive nor negative effects, but is simply excreted from the body. 1 tablet Apo Folica also contains 5 mg of vitamin B 9 . Given the increased content of the substance in the tablet, Folacin and Apo-Folic are used only for acute and severe vitamin deficiency. In order to prevent these drugs are not recommended.
In one tablet of the drug Folio contains 0.4 mg of vitamin B 9 and 0.2 mg of iodine. The advantage of this dosage form is that it contains two micronutrients, so there is no need for additional use of iodine preparations. The dose of vitamin B 9 in one tablet is low, so it is recommended as a prophylactic drug. Folio is not prescribed for acute deficiency or increased need for folic acid.
Vitamin B 9 is part of multivitamin preparations for pregnant women. The content of folic acid in one tablet each drug is different:
- Materna - 1 mg;
- Elevit - 1 mg;
- Vitrum prenatal - 0.8 mg
- Vitrum prenatal forte - 0.8 mg
- Multi-tabs perinatal - 0.4 mg
- Pregnavit - 0.75 mg.
Vitamin B 9 is absorbed much better from drugs than from food.
In addition to pharmaceuticals, folic acid can be obtained from dietary supplements.
Indications
Folic acid is indicated for the following conditions:- folate deficiency anemia;
- anemia as a complication after gastrectomy;
- sprue (tropical diarrhea);
- chronic inflammation of the intestine;
- intestinal tuberculosis;
- pregnancy;
- lactation period;
- vitamin B deficiency 9.
- if there are pronounced signs of folic acid deficiency (in this case, the dosage is calculated individually by the attending physician);
- if there are factors that increase the need for vitamin B 9, or stimulate its excretion from the body.
- use of combined oral contraceptives before conception;
- the use of Maalox or Phosphalugel;
- taking anticonvulsants during the planning period and during pregnancy;
- protein diet before conception;
- lack of plant foods in the diet;
- disruption of the digestive tract;
- vomiting during pregnancy.
Clinical trials have demonstrated that vitamin B 9 may have a positive effect in the prevention of Alzheimer's disease. In persons with this pathology, as a rule, the content of folic acid and cyanocobalamin in the blood is reduced.
Dosage and administration
If a woman has any of the above factors, then during pregnancy planning and in the first trimester, it is necessary to consume 2-3 mg of vitamin B 9 per day. Also, taking the drug in an increased dosage is necessary with a high probability of a violation of the development of the neural tube. Such a risk is present in women with epilepsy, diabetes, as well as in the presence of similar disorders in relatives in a direct line.The need for folic acid during pregnancy is 0.4 - 0.8 mg per day. However, in a deficient state, the dosage is significantly increased in order to compensate for the lack of a vitamin. The neural tube of the embryo begins to develop at 3-5 weeks of gestation. At this time, a woman may not know about pregnancy, and may not complete a timely course to compensate for folic acid deficiency. Therefore, vitamin B 9 must be taken 1-3 months before the expected pregnancy. It is most important to maintain the required level of folic acid in the first trimester.
Folic acid must be taken during lactation in the amount of 0.3 mg per day (possible in the form of a multivitamin complex). This serves as a preventive course for both mother and child. If you use the drug in high doses (for example, 1 mg), then the excess amount of the vitamin is simply excreted from the woman's body without harming either her or the baby.
It is important to observe the regularity in the use of vitamin B 9. However, given that any drug contains a dose that exceeds the daily requirement for a vitamin, skipping one dose should not cause concern.
- Atherosclerosis. 5 mg of vitamin B 9 per day for two weeks, then - 1 mg. It is recommended to use in the form of a B-group vitamin complex.
- Aphthous stomatitis. As a rule, aphthae (sores on the oral mucosa) appear along with cracks in the lips with a deficiency of vitamins and micronutrients involved in hematopoiesis. Among them: vitamin B 9, iron and cyanocobalamin. The recommended dosage is 5 mg of vitamin B 9 3 times a day and 10 mg of iron glycinate for 120-180 days. Once every 30 days, inject cyanocobalamin - 1 mg. During treatment, it is necessary to regularly check the level of cyanocobalamin.
- Viral hepatitis. Folic acid is used as an aid. It is recommended to take 5 mg 3 times a day for 10 days, then 5 mg once a day.
- Gingivitis and periodontitis. Take orally 1 mg of vitamin B 9 times a day, rinse the mouth 2 times a day for one minute with a 1% solution of the vitamin for 60-70 days.
- Depression. Often seen in individuals with folic acid deficiency. Take 2-5 mg every day in combination with B-group vitamins.
- Osteochondrosis. Vitamin B 9 is involved in the formation of a framework from collagen, on which calcium salts accumulate. Without a collagen framework, the bone does not acquire the necessary strength. The recommended dosage is once a day, 5 mg of vitamin B 9, 50 mg of vitamin B6, 50 mg of B-complex vitamins.
- Tumor of the large intestine. If any of your relatives in a straight line had this oncological disease, it is strongly recommended to take 1-5 mg of vitamin B 9 and 100 mg of B-complex vitamins once a day.
- Spasm of the colon. It manifests itself in the form of alternating constipation and diarrhea, colic and bloating. Lack of vitamin B 9 can lead to chronic constipation, which leads to spasm of the colon. It is necessary to start with 10 mg of the vitamin once a day. If no progress is observed after 15-20 days, the dose should be increased to 20-60 mg per day until a positive effect occurs. Further, the dosage is gradually reduced. At the same time, it is recommended to take 0.1 g of B-complex vitamins once a day. During the course, it is necessary to regularly check the level of cyanocobalamin. It is recommended to include oat bran in the diet, which contains water-soluble fiber. Wheat bran is not suitable in this case, since their fiber is insoluble.
- Epilepsy. After an epileptic attack, the level of vitamin B 9 in the brain decreases. Anticonvulsants also reduce its plasma concentration. As a result, seizures become more frequent. Usually, epilepsy is prescribed 5 mg once a day. However, the drug should be taken only after consulting a doctor.
Overdose
Overdose happens very rarely. To do this, the body must receive hundreds of times more than the required amount of folic acid (20-30 mg). With a slight excess of the required amount of the drug, the excess folic acid is excreted without causing any harm to the body. However, like any medication, vitamin B 9 preparations can cause allergies.A serious disadvantage of long-term use of vitamin B 9 preparations is that it hides the symptoms of megaloblastic anemia, but does not stop the neurological disorders characteristic of this disease. Therefore, with prolonged use of vitamin B 9 preparations, a latent progression of severe neurological disorders due to a lack of cyanocobalamin is possible. Just 10 years ago, it was generally accepted that there was no overdose of this micronutrient. However, studies are now known that indicate that pregnant women who have been taking high-dose vitamin B 9 preparations for a long time give birth to children with weak immunity, a tendency to bronchial asthma and colds.
Hypervitaminosis
High doses of vitamin B 9 can cause dyspepsia or irritability in a child. Prolonged use of the vitamin at an increased dosage is not recommended, as this can lead to a drop in the blood content of cyanocobalamin.Side effects
Depending on individual tolerance, folic acid preparations can cause allergic manifestations, bronchospasm, skin redness, hyperthermia, rash.Vitamin B 9 does not have a toxic effect on the human body. Clinical studies have been conducted on the long-term use of vitamin B 9 at a dosage of 15 mg per day (40 times the daily requirement of the body). According to the results of studies, the drug did not have any toxic effect. However, prolonged intake (more than 90 days) of vitamin B 9 at an increased dosage can lead to a drop in the level of cyanocobalamin in the blood, which can cause anemia. Increased doses of the vitamin can provoke disorders of the digestive tract, increase excitability, and cause an imbalance in the functioning of the kidneys.
Some drugs reduce the content of vitamin B 9 in blood plasma. Among them:
- acetylsalicylic acid (at an increased dosage);
- nitrofurans (taken for urinary tract infections);
- combined oral contraceptives;
Folic acid and men's health
Vitamin B 9 is necessary for both women and men. With chronic vitamin deficiency, men can develop a number of pathologies, including infertility and megaloblastic anemia. Taking folic acid in a therapeutic dosage eliminates such complications.The main indicator of men's health is considered to be the state of spermatozoa. Spermatozoa are the same cells, their synthesis requires protein and nucleic acids. In the absence of vitamin B 9, sperm synthesis is impaired. With a lack of a vitamin, the concentration of spermatozoa decreases, and their condition worsens: spermatozoa may have an unnatural shape or not have a tail, which reduces their mobility. But the worst thing is that such spermatozoa may have the wrong number of chromosomes, and this is the main factor in hereditary diseases in children (eg Down's syndrome).
Vitamin B 9 and the hormone testosterone determine the normal development of spermatozoa. Folic acid is extremely important for men in puberty, since it is one of the factors in the development of secondary sexual characteristics (coarsening of the voice, facial and body hair, intensive growth).
Folic acid in the treatment and prevention of cancer
Vitamin B 9 prevents cancer. But if the disease has already begun, then the drug should not be used, since folic acid will promote the division of cancer cells. In such situations, drugs are used that inhibit the activity of vitamin B 9, such as methotrexate. This slows down the growth of the tumor. In order to prevent metabolic disorders, a drug is prescribed that replaces vitamin B 9 - folinic acid. Given the higher risk of cancer in older people, they are advised not to take folic acid supplements without a doctor's recommendation.Leucovorin is a folinic acid-based drug successfully used as part of cancer chemotherapy. It reduces the severity of intoxication after the use of cytotoxic drugs (vomiting, diarrhea, hyperthermia, bone marrow damage).
Recent studies by scientists in the United States have proven the relationship between taking vitamin B 9 preparations and the progression of colon tumors.
Since 1980, Harvard has conducted a survey every 2 years, in which approximately 90,000 women with children participated. The questions concerned nutrition and, separately, the intake of vitamin complexes. In 1994, the collected information was carefully examined for the incidence of colon cancer, the third most common cancer among women in the United States. Survey data showed that women who took sufficient amounts of vitamin B 9 - more than 0.4 g mg per day, were least likely to suffer from this disease.
Scientists concluded: 75% of cases of colon tumors in women can be avoided if prophylactic doses of vitamin B 9 are consumed throughout life.
Research has led to another important conclusion. Least of all, a tumor of the large intestine occurred in women who regularly consumed vitamin complexes over the past 10-15 years.
Folic acid and prevention of atherosclerosis
Recently, doctors are increasingly inclined to believe that folic acid is effective in the prevention of atherosclerosis, the main factor in diseases of the cardiovascular system.Today, a new theory of the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis is popular in Western countries. According to this theory, the main reason for the progression of atherosclerosis is the high level in the blood of cholesterol, which is not known to everyone, but another bioactive factor - homocysteine.
Homocysteine is an endogenous amino acid. Under the influence of enzymes in the body, it is transformed into the essential fatty amino acid methionine, which is involved in the production of protein. If the body is deficient in the appropriate enzymes, homocysteine accumulates in the blood and destroys the walls of blood vessels, causing inflammation. Cholesterol is involved in this process at later stages. Supporters of the new theory argue that without homocysteine, even with an elevated level of cholesterol in the blood, atherosclerosis does not progress.
What is the role of folic acid in this vein? The fact is that it is it that is necessary for the synthesis in the body of enzymes that transform homocysteine into methionine. Deficiency of vitamin B 9 causes a deficiency of the corresponding enzyme. As a result, excess homocysteine accumulates in the blood, which leads to the progression of atherosclerosis, and then to its complications - ischemia of the heart muscle, heart attack, stroke.
Before use, you should consult with a specialist.
