Adequate folic acid also may help reduce the risk of Down Syndrome and other birth defects like cleft lip and palate. Since half of pregnancies in the U.S. are unplanned, prevention through sound nutrition and medical care is key. While folic acid educational campaigns currently target women of childbearing age, folic acid is important for everyone regardless of age or gender. Folic acid may even promote heart health. Some of the latest studies suggest a link between low blood folate levels and Alzheimer's Disease, but the researchers have cautioned that more study is needed.
Folic acid is the synthetic form of folate or folacin, which is found in food.
Many nutrition experts recommend that all women of childbearing age take a vitamin supplement with at least 400 micrograms of folic acid for added nutrition insurance. Many breakfast cereals contain folic acid, too. Read food labels to learn more about your choices. While a toxic level of folic acid is not known, nutrition experts recommend keeping consumption under 1000 micrograms daily. A high intake can mask the signs of a vitamin B-12 deficiency, which is especially common in the elderly and may lead to a type of anemia and weakness in the legs, nerve damage and other symptoms.