Folic acid
Major Functions
DNA synthesis - Energy - Red blood cell health
In every dose
500mcg (equal to 2 cups of boiled spinach or a whole 3lb crab*)
* (plant sources are much better than meat)
What’s in it for my brain?
Folate helps to lower homocysteine levels, which is important as high levels have been linked to dementia and Alzheimer’s. It also contributes to normal psychological function and helps to reduce tiredness and fatigue.
Fringe benefits
Essential for healthy red blood cells
Protects unborn babies from birth defects
Plays well with
Folic acid, iron and vitamin B12 all work together to protect from all forms of anaemia
Clever stuff
Folate is a water-soluble vitamin also known as vitamin B9. The body needs it to make DNA and other genetic material, which is why it’s recommended that women trying to conceive take a supplement prior to and during pregnancy.
Evidence
Here’s a handful of relevant scientific studies on folic acid.
Bailey, L. B., Stover, P. J., McNulty, H., Fenech, M. F., Gregory III, J. F., Mills, J. L., ... & Molloy, A. M. (2015). Biomarkers of nutrition for development—folate review. The Journal of nutrition, 145(7), 1636S-1680S.
Chinthapalli, K. (2014). Alzheimer’s disease: still a perplexing problem. Bmj, 349.
Wilson, R. D., Audibert, F., Brock, J. A., Carroll, J., Cartier, L., Gagnon, A., ... & Pastuck, M. (2015). Pre-conception folic acid and multivitamin supplementation for the primary and secondary prevention of neural tube defects and other folic acid-sensitive congenital anomalies. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Canada, 37(6), 534-549.