Vitamin B9, also known as folic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for the reproduction and growth of all body cells. Folic acid is found in several foods including heart, kidney, liver, tuna, salmon, dairy products, brewer’s yeast, green leafy vegetables, legumes, beans, whole grains, wheat germ, wheat bran, avocados, apricots, cantaloupe, soybeans, pumpkin seeds and carrots. The recommended dietary allowance for vitamin B9 for adults is 0.05-0.5 mg.
Folic acid aids in amino acid metabolism and is necessary for RNA and DNA synthesis. It helps improve breast milk and is required for the proper development of the spinal cord and brain in foetus. Vitamin B9 helps support a healthy brain function and is necessary for the cell division in the body.
Folic acid is essential to the formation of RBCs (red blood cells) by its action on the bone marrow. Moreover, it helps promote healthy skin, hair and emotional health. A regular consumption of vitamin B9 helps prevent anaemia in the children and adults.
The deficiency symptoms of folic acid include irritability, nervousness, poor memory, difficulty concentrating, depression, extreme fatigue, anaemia, peeling of the lips, sores in the mouth, gastrointestinal disorders, pre-mature grey hair, and vitamin B12 deficiency.
Lifeplan Folic Acid 400mcg is a popular brand that contains folic acid which is essential to protein metabolism and development of foetus during pregnancy. A dietary allowance of 400µg is recommended for the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. This product does not contain lactose, starch, salt or gluten. Each tablet provides Folacin 400µg 200% RDA.
