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Folic Acid

(Vitamin B9)

The synthetic form of folate, a B vitamin, that’s necessary for cell reproduction and cellular health during pregnancy and periods of rapid growth.

spinach

What Is Folic Acid?

Folic acid is the synthetic counterpart to folate, a B vitamin that can be found naturally in certain plant foods. Of the two, folic acid is the more readily available—the body absorbs about twice as much folic acid at any given time—but they play the same role in good health.

Cell reproduction is among folate’s most important duties. Folic acid plays an important role in the production of red blood cells. In conjunction with vitamins B6 and B12, it helps control homocysteine levels in the bloodstream. Research indicates that elevated homocysteine levels could potentially be associated with heart disease.1

Folate is also necessary for making the nucleic acids DNA and RNA, which is a critical role during times of rapid growth, such as pregnancy and infancy.2 This also explains why folate/folic acid is so important in maintaining normal brain function.2

Pregnant woman giving her dog a snack outside

Why Is Folic Acid Important?

Adequate folic acid is necessary during pregnancy to help prevent certain birth defects and support neural tube development. The USDA’s 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans identifies folic acid as a nutrient needed for women in their childbearing years. Taking a prenatal supplement starting three months before conception can help women meet their daily folic acid needs.1

400 mcg

400 mcg

Recommended Dietary Allowance (DFE*)

Sources of Folic Acid

spinach

Spinach

Black-Eyed Peas

Black-eyed Peas

rice

Rice

mixed nuts in a wooden bowl

Nuts

assorted fresh fruits

Fruits

Black beans on a wooden spoon with ceramic bowl

Beans

Cereal with yogurt and berries

Fortified cereal and pastas1

Folic Acid Helps Support

Brain Health

Brain Health

 

Learn More

Pregnancy

Pregnancy

 

Learn More

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Explore Additional Vitamins & Minerals

B6

Vitamin B6

Helps support:

Energy
Heart Health
Brain Health

B3

Niacin

Helps support:

Energy
Hair and Skin

B12

Vitamin B12

Helps support:

Energy

I

Iodine

Helps support:

Energy
Pregnancy

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Source Citations:

  1. Folate (folic acid). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-folate/art-20364625. Accessed 11/5/23.
  2. Folate. Office of Dietary Supplements. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Folate-HealthProfessional/?swcfpc=1. Accessed 01/26/2024.