Folic acid deficiency

Folic acid deficiency can be either congenital or acquired; the latter is more common.

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Causes of Folic Acid Deficiency (Insufficiency)

Folic acid deficiency can be caused by a variety of factors and reasons. Here are some of the most common reasons:

1. Insufficient folate intake: Folate deficiency can occur if the diet does not contain enough foods rich in this vitamin. This can happen if the intake of fruits, vegetables, greens, whole grains and beans is limited.
2. Improper cooking: Overcooking and boiling folate-rich foods for long periods of time can destroy this vitamin. Also, if the cooking water is poured out, the folates can be lost.
3. Alcohol and drug abuse: Alcohol and some drugs can impair the body's absorption and use of folate.
4. Increased Needs: Certain conditions and situations, such as pregnancy, lactation, growth and development of children, and certain illnesses, may increase the need for folate.
5. Diseases and surgeries: Certain diseases, such as celiac disease, chronic gastrointestinal diseases, and some surgical procedures, can interfere with folate absorption.
6. Medications: Some medications, such as antacids, anticonvulsants, and some antibiotics, can interfere with the absorption and use of folate.
7. Genetic factors: Some people may have genetic mutations that make it difficult to metabolize folate and lead to folate deficiency.

Folic acid deficiency can have serious health consequences, so it is important to pay attention to balancing your diet and, if you suspect a deficiency, discuss it with your doctor. Your doctor may recommend taking special folic acid supplements to correct the deficiency.

What causes folate deficiency?

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Folic acid metabolism

Folic acid (folate) metabolism is a complex biological process that is important for many functions in the body. Folic acid, or folates, are an important group of B-complex vitamins that play a role in DNA synthesis, amino acid metabolism, nervous system function, and other biological processes. Here are the main steps in folic acid metabolism:

1. Absorption: Folates are absorbed from food in the gastrointestinal tract. They are found in a variety of foods, such as green vegetables, fruits, grains, and liver.
2. Conversion to Active Form: Folic acid obtained from food is not the active form of the vitamin. It must be converted to the biologically active form known as tetrahydrofolic acid (THF) in order to be used by the body. This process occurs in the liver.
3. Involvement in metabolic pathways: Tetrahydrofolic acid (THF) is a cofactor in many metabolic pathways, including amino acid synthesis, formation of purine and pyrimidine bases (necessary for DNA and RNA synthesis), and the metabolism of amino acids such as methionine and homocysteine.
4. Participation in DNA synthesis: Folates play an important role in the synthesis of new DNA molecules, which are necessary for the growth, division and renewal of cells in the body. This is especially important for rapidly growing cells, such as bone marrow and fetal cells.
5. Involvement in the nervous system: Folates affect the nervous system by helping in the synthesis of neurotransmitters and ensuring the normal functioning of nerve cells.

Folic acid metabolism

Symptoms of folate deficiency

Deficiency of vitamin B9, also known as folic acid (or folate), can lead to a variety of health problems. Here are some of the symptoms and effects of vitamin B9 deficiency:

1. Megaloblastic anemia: A deficiency in folic acid can lead to megaloblastic anemia, which is a condition in which the body cannot produce enough blood cells. This condition is characterized by an increase in the size of red blood cells, which can cause symptoms such as weakness, paleness, fatigue, and shortness of breath.
2. Digestive Problems: Folic acid deficiency can affect digestion, causing loss of appetite, nausea, and gastrointestinal upset.
3. Nervous system disorders: Long-term folate deficiency can cause damage to the nervous system, which can manifest as insomnia, depression, irritability, and other neurological symptoms.
4. Skin, hair, and nail problems: Folic acid deficiency can lead to changes in the skin (such as ulcers or inflammation), hair, and nails.
5. Risk of complications during pregnancy: Adequate levels of folate are essential during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects in the fetus. Insufficient folate in pregnant women may increase the risk of such complications.
6. Cardiovascular risk: Folate deficiency may be associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

Symptoms of folate deficiency

Treatment of folic acid deficiency

Treatment for folate deficiency, also known as folate insufficiency or vitamin B9 deficiency, typically involves the following measures:

1. Taking folic acid supplements: Your doctor may recommend taking folic acid supplements depending on the severity of your deficiency and any associated medical conditions. The dosage and duration of treatment are determined by your doctor. The form of folic acid that is commonly used is one that is well absorbed by the body.
2. Regular monitoring: Once treatment has begun, it is important to have your folic acid levels checked regularly with blood tests. This allows your doctor to monitor the effectiveness of your treatment and adjust it if necessary.
3. Dietary adjustments: It is recommended to improve your diet to increase your intake of folate from food. Folate is found in foods such as leafy green vegetables (spinach, broccoli, lettuce), citrus fruits, beans, peas, eggs, nuts, and other foods. Increasing your intake of these foods can help maintain folate levels.
4. Avoiding Factors That Contribute to Deficiency: Certain factors, such as alcohol, uncontrolled use of certain medications, and chronic diseases, may contribute to folate deficiency. Patients are advised to avoid such factors if possible.

Treatment for folate deficiency should be done under the supervision of a doctor, as improper use of folate supplements can be harmful. It is important to follow your doctor’s recommendations and regularly discuss changes in your condition with your doctor.

Treatment of folic acid deficiency