Folic acid for women: the importance of taking
I. The role of folic acid in the body of a woman
Folic acid, also known as vitamin B9 or folat (in food form), is a water -soluble vitamin that plays a key role in many vital biochemical processes in the human body, especially in women. Its significance is due to the participation of amino acid metabolism, the synthesis of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA), cell division and tissue growth. The disadvantage of folic acid can lead to serious health consequences, affecting various body systems.
A. Synthesis DNA and RNA:
Folic acid is a cooferment necessary for the conversion of a digidrofolat into a tetrahydrofolat. Tetrahydrofolat, in turn, is involved in the transfer of single -iron groups that are necessary for the synthesis of purine and pyrimidine bases – construction blocks of DNA and RNA. These nucleic acids are carriers of genetic information and play a key role in cellular division, growth and differentiation. Without enough folic acid, DNA and RNA synthesis are disturbed, which is especially critical for rapidly dividing cells, such as blood cells and fetal cells during pregnancy.
B. Amino acid metabolism:
Folic acid is involved in amino acid metabolism, in particular, in the transformation of homocysteine into methionine. Homocysteine is an amino acid whose increased level in the blood is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, thrombosis and other health problems. Folic acid, together with vitamin B12, helps maintain a normal level of homocysteine, thereby reducing the risk of developing these diseases. In addition, folic acid is involved in the synthesis of other amino acids necessary for the construction of proteins and enzymes.
C. Cellular division and tissue growth:
Due to its role in the synthesis of DNA and RNA, folic acid plays a decisive role in cellular division and tissue growth. This is especially important during periods of rapid growth and development, such as childhood, adolescence and pregnancy. The disadvantage of folic acid can lead to a violation of growth and development, as well as to the formation of defective cells.
D. Other important functions:
In addition to the above functions, folic acid also participates in:
- The formation of red blood cells (red blood cells), preventing the development of megaloblastic anemia.
- Maintaining the health of the nervous system.
- Strengthening the immune system.
- Regulation of mood and cognitive functions.
II. The importance of folic acid for women of various age groups
The need for folic acid varies depending on the age and physiological state of a woman. Particular attention should be paid to taking folic acid during periods of preparation for pregnancy, during pregnancy and during lactation.
A. adolescence:
During puberty, the need for folic acid increases due to rapid growth and development. Sufficient consumption of folic acid is necessary for the normal formation of bones, muscles and other tissues. In addition, folic acid plays an important role in maintaining the health of the menstrual cycle.
B. Women of reproductive age (before pregnancy):
For women planning pregnancy, folic acid plays a decisive role in the prevention of defects in the nervous tube in the fetus. It is recommended to start taking folic acid at least 1-3 months before conception and continue it during the first trimester of pregnancy. Adequate consumption of folic acid before pregnancy also contributes to a general improvement in women’s health and increased fertility.
C. Pregnancy:
Pregnancy is a period of increased need for folic acid. Folic acid is necessary for the normal development of the nervous system of the fetus, the formation of the placenta and growth of the uterus. The disadvantage of folic acid during pregnancy can lead to serious consequences, such as defects in the nervous tube (for example, Spina Bifida), cleft lips and sky, congenital heart defects and other developmental abnormalities. In addition, the lack of folic acid can increase the risk of premature birth, miscarriage and low weight at birth.
D. Lactation period:
During breastfeeding, the need for folic acid remains increased, since folic acid is transmitted to the baby with breast milk. Sufficient consumption of folic acid is necessary for the normal growth and development of the child, as well as to maintain the health of the mother.
E. Menopause and postmenopause:
During menopause and postmenopause, the need for folic acid remains important for maintaining the health of the cardiovascular system, nervous system and bone tissue. Folic acid helps reduce homocysteine levels, thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. In addition, folic acid can play a role in the prevention of osteoporosis and dementia.
III. Recommended daily dose of folic acid for women
The recommended daily dose of folic acid varies depending on the age and physiological condition of the woman.
- Women of reproductive age (before pregnancy): 400 mcg per day.
- Women planning pregnancy: 400-800 mcg per day (start reception 1-3 months before conception).
- Pregnant women: 600-800 mcg per day.
- Women’s nursing: 500 mcg per day.
- Women in menopause and postmenopause: 400 mcg per day.
In some cases, the doctor may recommend higher doses of folic acid, for example, in the presence of a history of the nervous tube, taking certain drugs or the presence of diseases associated with impaired absorption of nutrients.
IV. Sources of folic acid
Folic acid can be obtained from food and vitamin additives.
A. Food sources:
The best food sources of folic acid are:
- Dark green leafy vegetables: Spinach, broccoli, salad Romen, asparagus, Brussels cabbage.
- Legumes: lentils, beans, peas, chickpeas.
- Fruits: Avocado, citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruits, lemons), strawberries, bananas.
- Nuts and seeds: Sunflower seeds, almonds, walnuts.
- Whole grain products: enriched bread, cereals, pasta.
- Liver and other offal.
- Eggs.
It should be borne in mind that folic acid is sensitive to the effects of heat and light, therefore, when cooking, part of folic acid can be destroyed. To preserve the maximum amount of folic acid, it is recommended to prepare products for steam, cook or bake at low temperatures.
B. Vitamin additives:
Folic acid is available in the form of monoperesia and as part of multivitamin complexes. Taking vitamin additives can be recommended to women who do not receive enough folic acid from food, or women who plan pregnancy or are already pregnant. Before taking vitamin additives, it is necessary to consult a doctor in order to determine the optimal dose and exclude possible contraindications.
V. Deficiency of folic acid: causes, symptoms and consequences
Folic acid deficiency can develop for various reasons, including insufficient consumption with food, impaired intestinal absorption, taking some drugs and increased need for folic acid (for example, during pregnancy).
A. The causes of folic acid deficiency:
- Insufficient consumption with food: An unbalanced diet, poor in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, can lead to a deficiency of folic acid.
- Violation of absorption in the intestines: Intestinal diseases, such as celiac disease, Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, can violate the absorption of folic acid.
- Taking drugs: Some drugs, such as methotrexate, sulfasalazine and anticonvulsant drugs, can reduce folic acid in the body.
- Alcohol abuse: Alcohol can disrupt the absorption and metabolism of folic acid.
- Increased need for folic acid: Pregnancy, lactation, hemolytic anemia and other conditions, accompanied by increased cell division, can lead to a deficiency of folic acid.
B. Symptoms of folic acid deficiency:
Symptoms of folic acid deficiency can be diverse and non -specific, which complicates the diagnosis. The most common symptoms include:
- Weakness and fatigue.
- Pallor of the skin.
- Irritability.
- Difficult breathing.
- Soreness of the language and mouth.
- Diarrhea.
- Loss of appetite and weight.
- Headaches.
- Problems with memory and concentration.
- Megaloblastic anemia: It is characterized by the presence of large, immature red blood cells in the blood.
C. The consequences of folic acid deficiency:
Folic acid deficiency can lead to serious health consequences, especially in women. The most common consequences include:
- Megaloblastic anemia.
- Defects of the nervous tube in the fetus (spina bifida, anencephalus).
- Increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
- Increased risk of developing certain types of cancer (for example, colon cancer).
- Depression.
- Reducing immunity.
- Infertility.
- Premature birth and miscarriage.
- Low birth weight.
VI. Folic acid and fertility
Folic acid plays an important role in maintaining fertility in women. It participates in the process of ovulation, implantation of the embryo and maintaining a healthy pregnancy.
A. Influence on ovulation:
Folic acid is necessary for the normal ripening of the egg and ovulation. The deficiency of folic acid can lead to a violation of the menstrual cycle and anovulation (lack of ovulation).
B. Impact on embryo implantation:
Folic acid is involved in the preparation of the uterine mucosa for implantation of the embryo. Sufficient consumption of folic acid can increase the chances of successful implantation and pregnancy.
C. Impact on the quality of the egg:
Folic acid is necessary for the synthesis of DNA and RNA, which play a key role in the division and development of cells. The disadvantage of folic acid can lead to damage to the DNA of the egg and a decrease in its quality.
D. Studies on the effect of folic acid on fertility:
Numerous studies have shown that taking folic acid can increase fertility in women. For example, one study published in The Lancet magazine showed that women who took folic acid had 40% more chances to get pregnant than women who did not take folic acid.
VII. Folic acid and prevention of nervous tube defects
Defects in the nervous tube (DNT) are serious congenital malformations that occur in the early stages of pregnancy, when the nervous tube (the structure from which the brain and spinal cord develops) is not completely closed. The most common DNTs are Spina Bifida (crevice of the spine) and anencephalus (lack of brain).
A. The role of folic acid in the prevention of DNT:
Folic acid plays a key role in DNT prevention. It is necessary for the normal development of the nervous system of the fetus and the closure of the nervous tube. Sufficient consumption of folic acid before and during pregnancy can significantly reduce the risk of DNT.
B. Recommendations for taking folic acid for DNT prevention:
It is recommended to start taking folic acid at least 1-3 months before conception and continue it during the first trimester of pregnancy. The optimal dose of folic acid for DNT prevention is 400-800 μg per day. Women who have cases of DNT, or taking some drugs, can recommend higher doses of folic acid.
C. The effectiveness of folic acid in DNT prevention:
Numerous studies have shown that taking folic acid can reduce the risk of DNT by 50-70%. In some countries where foods are enriched with folic acid, there is a significant decrease in DNT frequency.
VIII. Interaction of folic acid with other vitamins and minerals
Folic acid interacts with other vitamins and minerals, affecting their absorption and metabolism.
A. Vitamin B12:
Folic acid and vitamin B12 are closely connected in metabolism. Vitamin B12 is necessary for activating folic acid, turning it into an active form necessary for the synthesis of DNA and RNA. Vitamin B12 deficiency can mask folic acid deficiency and vice versa. When taking folic acid in high doses, it is necessary to control the level of vitamin B12, since folic acid can mask the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency, leading to irreversible damage to the nervous system.
B. Zinc:
Zinc is necessary for the absorption and metabolism of folic acid. Zinc deficiency can reduce the effectiveness of folic acid.
C. Vitamin C:
Vitamin C helps to protect folic acid from oxidation and destruction.
D. Iron:
Folic acid and iron are necessary for the formation of red blood cells. Folic acid deficiency can lead to megaloblastic anemia, and iron deficiency to iron deficiency anemia.
IX. Folic acid intake safety
Folic acid is usually safe for most people when taking recommended doses. However, in some cases side effects may occur.
A. Side effects:
Side effects from taking folic acid are rare and usually appear when taking high doses. The most common side effects include:
- Nausea.
- Bloating.
- Gas.
- Diarrhea.
- Insomnia.
- Irritability.
- Skin rashes.
In rare cases, allergic reactions to folic acid may occur.
B. Contraindications:
A contraindication of folic acid is individual intolerance to the drug.
C. Cautions:
- Before taking folic acid, you need to consult a doctor, especially if you have any diseases or you take drugs.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose of folic acid.
- When taking folic acid in high doses, it is necessary to control the level of vitamin B12.
X. Folic acid and mental health of women
Folic acid plays an important role in maintaining the mental health of women. It participates in the synthesis of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine, which regulate mood, sleep and appetite.
A. Influence on depression:
The disadvantage of folic acid can be associated with the development of depression. Some studies have shown that taking folic acid can improve the symptoms of depression, especially in combination with antidepressants.
B. Impact on anxiety:
Folic acid can help reduce anxiety. Some studies have shown that taking folic acid can reduce anxiety symptoms and improve overall well -being.
C. Impact on cognitive functions:
Folic acid can improve cognitive functions, such as memory, attention and concentration. The disadvantage of folic acid can lead to a deterioration in cognitive functions and an increase in the risk of dementia.
XI. Folic acid and cancer prevention
The role of folic acid in cancer prevention is complex and contradictory. Some studies have shown that sufficient consumption of folic acid can reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancer, such as colon cancer, breast cancer and ovarian cancer. However, other studies have shown that taking high doses of folic acid can increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer.
A. The mechanisms of the effect of folic acid on cancer:
Folic acid can affect the development of cancer through several mechanisms, including:
- Participation in the synthesis of DNA and RNA, which can affect the stability of the genome and prevent mutations.
- Participation in the metabolism of homocysteine, the high level of which is associated with an increased risk of cancer.
- Regulation of the expression of genes involved in cell growth and development.
B. Additional studies are needed:
Additional studies are needed to clarify the role of folic acid in cancer prevention and determine the optimal doses for different people. It is important to remember that taking folic acid is not a guarantee of cancer protection, and other prevention measures must be observed, such as healthy nutrition, regular physical exercises and smoking.
XII. Laboratory diagnosis of folic acid deficiency
Diagnosis of folic acid deficiency is carried out using laboratory tests.
A. Blood test for folic acid:
The most common method of diagnosing folic acid deficiency is a blood test for the content of folic acid. The normal level of folic acid in blood serum is from 3 to 17 ng/ml. The level below 3 ng/ml indicates a deficiency of folic acid.
B. Blood test for erythrocyte folic acid:
A more accurate method for diagnosing folic acid deficiency is a blood test for the content of red blood cell folic acid. This analysis reflects the level of folic acid in red blood cells for a longer period of time than the analysis of serum folic acid. The normal level of red blood cell folic acid is from 140 to 628 ng/ml. The level below 140 ng/ml indicates a deficiency of folic acid.
C. Blood test for homocystein:
A blood test for homocysteine can also be used to diagnose folic acid deficiency. An increased level of homocysteine may indicate a deficiency of folic acid, vitamin B12 or vitamin B6.
XIII. Treatment of folic acid deficiency
Treatment of folic acid deficiency consists in taking vitamin additives and nutrition correction.
A. Reception of vitamin additives:
The doctor may prescribe vitamin additives with folic acid to restore the normal level of folic acid in the body. The dose and duration of treatment depend on the degree of deficiency of folic acid and the individual characteristics of the patient.
B. Power correction:
It is important to include in the diet products rich in folic acid, such as dark green leafy vegetables, legumes, fruits and whole grain products.
C. Treatment of related diseases:
If the deficiency of folic acid is caused by concomitant diseases, such as impaired absorption in the intestines or taking drugs, it is necessary to treat these diseases.
XIV. Folic acid research prospects
Studies of folic acid continue and are aimed at studying its role in various aspects of women’s health.
A. Study of influence on cognitive functions:
Studies are being conducted on the study of the effects of folic acid on cognitive functions, such as memory, attention and concentration.
B. Study of impact on mental health:
Studies are being conducted to study the effects of folic acid on mental health, in particular on depression and anxiety.
C. Study of the role in the prevention of cancer:
Studies on the study of the role of folic acid in the prevention of cancer and determining the optimal doses for different people are ongoing.
D. Development of new forms of folic acid:
New forms of folic acid are developed, which are better absorbed by the body and have greater bioavailability.
XV. Conclusion
Folic acid is an important vitamin for women of all age groups. Sufficient consumption of folic acid is necessary to maintain health, preventing defects of the nervous tube in the fetus, maintaining fertility and improving mental health. It is important to monitor your nutrition and include in the diet products rich in folic acid. If necessary, you should take vitamin additives with folic acid on the recommendation of a doctor. Regular intake of folic acid helps maintain the optimal health and well -being of women.