Folate helps the body form red blood cells and healthy cell growth and function. It helps brain health as well as the immune system. Most supplements, especially pregnancy products, contain folic acid instead which is the synthetic version (man made). Deficiency can cause neural tube defects like spina bifida in the developing foetus.
Good Food Sources include spinach, kale, black eyed peas, broccoli, asparagus, cabbage, rice and chickpeas.
Recommended Intake of Folic Acid is 200 mcg daily or 400 mcg in pregnancy.
Deficiency can cause a type of anaemia called megaloblastic anaemia. Being anaemic can cause a range of symptoms including tiredness and fatigue, headaches and breathlessness.
Tips;
- If you are considering becoming pregnant, ensure you take a supplement with 400 micrograms of folic acid as recommended by the UK Department of Health.
