Vitamin B9 - FOLIC ACID

The vital vitamin

Folic acid belongs to the group of B vitamins (vitamin B9). It plays a central role in all growth and development processes, especially in the formation of blood, cells and genetic material. It is therefore most important during pregnancy. A lack of folic acid can hinder the development of the embryo and damage the central nervous system. Doctors refer to this as a neural tube defect and folic acid is also involved in the breakdown and formation of various amino acids. One example of this is the conversion of the amino acid homocysteine into the essential amino acid methionine. If too little folic acid is taken, the breakdown of homocysteine is impaired and the homocysteine level in the plasma rises.folic acid is essential for the human organism and cannot be produced by the body itself. It must therefore be obtained from food or a high-quality dietary supplement.

Vitamin B9 (folic acid)

contributes to the growth of maternal tissue during pregnancy
contributes to normal amino acid synthesis
contributes to normal blood formation
contributes to the normal function of the immune system
contributes to normal psychological function
contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue
contributes to normal homocysteine metabolism
has a function in cell division

A folic acid deficiency can occur in young women in particular. This can be caused by pregnancy or increased blood loss during menstruation. High alcohol consumption, chronic liver disease, severe digestive disorders, an unbalanced diet or taking certain medications can also be causes of a folic acid deficiency.