Folic acid, sometimes referred to as folate or vitamin B9, is an essential vitamin that is needed for several body processes, most notably DNA synthesis and cell division. Lack of it can result in a variety of health problems that impact one's physical and mental health. Anemia is one of the main effects of folic acid deficiency. For the bone marrow to produce red blood cells, folate is necessary. This process can be hampered by insufficient folic acid levels, which can result in megaloblastic anemia, which is characterized by larger-than-normal red blood cells. Breathlessness, weakness, and exhaustion are some of the symptoms. Another major effect is neural tube abnormalities (NTDs). Early fetal development depends critically on folic acid, especially during the first several weeks of pregnancy when the neural tube closes. The risk of non-thalamic defects (NTDs) such spina bifida and anencephaly, which can cause severe lifelong impairments or even fetal death, is increased by inadequate folate intake. Furthermore, a lack of folic acid has been linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.High amounts of homocysteine, an amino acid connected to heart disease, are processed by folate. Low folate can raise homocysteine levels, which raises the risk of heart attacks and strokes and contributes to atherosclerosis. Folic acid deficiency has effects on the body, but it can also have mental health effects. Reduced folate levels have been connected to cognitive decline and depression. Neurotransmitters that control mood and thought processes, including norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin, are made with the help of folate. These functions may be interfered with by insufficient folate, which can lead to mood problems and cognitive deterioration. Fruits, fortified grains, legumes, and leafy green vegetables are the main dietary sources of folate. However, a number of conditions, such as inadequate dietary intake, malabsorption issues, drunkenness, and some drugs, such methotrexate and anticonvulsants, might raise the risk of insufficiency. You must eat a balanced diet full of foods high in folate to avoid folic acid deficiency. To guarantee sufficient intake, supplementation may be advised for people who are at risk, such as expectant mothers. Maintaining optimal health and avoiding related consequences requires early detection of deficiency symptoms and fast dietary modifications or supplements.
