Folic Acid Deficiency

A folic acid deficency in a woman can have an effect not only on her, but on her unborn child as well.

When a womain is deficient in folate not only can spontaneous abortion occur, but the baby may not form correctly and could be born with defects such as neural tube defect.

Studies have shown that neural tube defects in a baby can be reduced by up to 80% if a woman begins taking folic acid before she falls pregnant. A folic acid defiency at this time is incredibly harmful to both mother and child, therefore the greatest of attention should be paid to consuming the correct amount of folic acid.

Folic acid along with vitamin B12 assist in the formation of red blood cells as well as in the synthesis of DNA.

Folic acid deficiency can come on quite rapidly as the human body does not store large amounts of folic acid, so it can be depleted in a matter of months.

People suffer from folic acid deficiency because they simply do not consumne enough green raw leafy vegetables or citrus fruits. These two food groups are essential in the ingestion of folic acid.

Large amounts of alcohol consumed regularly will have a detrimental effect in the processing of folic acid and can lead to deficiency.

There are also certain prescription drugs which can deplete folic acid levels. Some of these include Dilantin, Bactrim, Septra, Luminal and Rheumatrex.

Symptoms of folic acid deficiency can include fatigue as an initial sign. In addition,the person may suffer froma anemic conditions such as irritability, dizziness, pale complexion and shortness of breath.

Folic acid deficiency sufferers may also notice a sore red tongue, weight loss and diarrhea. When a pregnant woman develops this deficiency, spinal cord defects can occur in the unborn baby.

A simple blood test can indicate whether someone has folic acid deficiency, so if you suspect this may be you then you are encouraged to seek professional medical opinion.

Folic acid deficiency can be cured by consuming foods that are high in folate, or by vitamin supplements.

Recommended Reading:

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