Folic Acid
Folic acid also known as vitamin B9 and is a vital element in the growth stage, then in combination with vitamin B12 (found naturally in milk, cheese, eggs, liver, kidney, fish and meat) is involved in building DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid, protein that contains genetic material governing the metabolism of cells) and in the formation and maturation of red blood cells (elements in the blood which carry oxygen throughout the body).
It is also responsible for:
- Prevent the onset of cold sores.
- Promote the health of the skin.
- Delay the onset of gray hair.
- Increase milk production.
- Protect against the attack of intestinal parasites and food poisoning.
If the consumption of this vitamin is deficient, problems can arise such as:
- Anemia and malabsorption of nutrients, as they are not eating it wears out the bowel and does not perform its functions effectively.
- Defects, because during the formation of a new being is required in larger quantities to be carried out in normal way the construction of DNA.
- More often, the body is invaded by parasites.
- Oral ulcers.
It is therefore essential that, from childhood to adulthood is incorporated into the diet is vitamin that is found naturally in green vegetables, mushrooms, liver, oranges, nuts, legumes, egg yolks and fortified cereals. During pregnancy it is recommended that folic acid consumption increases and lasts three months after delivery. This can be enriched with vitamin supplements and food supplements.